Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

DATE=4/09/03

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH / IRAQ (L)

NUMBER=2-301999

BYLINE=PAULA WOLFSON

DATELINE=WHITE HOUSE

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: President Bush says he is pleased to see progress in the military campaign in Iraq, and heartened by the celebrations in the streets of Baghdad. But at the same time, he warns the war is not over and dangers remain. We have more from V-O-A's Paula Wolfson.

TEXT: The White House is mixing optimism and caution.

Spokesman Ari Fleischer says historic events are unfolding in the streets of Baghdad and President Bush is pleased.

///FLEISCHER ACT///

The president is heartened by what he has seen in the streets of Baghdad because he knows people are becoming free.

////END ACT///

But at the same time, Mr. Fleischer says the president believes Iraq remains a dangerous place, and realizes the U-S led coalition is still involved in a shooting war.

///FLEISCHER ACT///

We still need to be cautious because we still have our armed forces in harm's way. There still is fighting ahead of us.

///END ACT///

He spoke as U-S television networks showed video of jubilant Iraqis in parts of the capital city, mixed with pictures of looting, and live coverage of sporadic gunfire.

Mr. Fleischer called the celebrations "a powerful testament to mankind's desire to be free." But he stressed they are only part of the story.

///FLEISCHER ACT///

What you are watching in Baghdad is that which the camera lens can show you in Baghdad. Baghdad is a large, large city in terms of people and size. There are other areas of Baghdad that are dangerous areas of Baghdad where fighting can still take place.

///END ACT///

But the lasting image of this day from the Iraqi capital was one of joy as people danced in the streets and pulled down a massive statue of Saddam Hussein in a city square.

The White House spokesman said Mr. Bush watched some of the dramatic television coverage stopping by a television set just outside the oval office between meetings.

The president was not seen in public during the day and kept a low profile. But Vice-President Dick Cheney spoke out saying the coalition's war strategy is now a proven success.

///(OPTIONAL) CHENEY ACT///

The conclusion of the war will mark one of the most extraordinary military campaigns ever conducted.

///END ACT (END OPT)///

Mr. Cheney told a national convention of newspaper editors in New Orleans, Louisiana, that with each passing day, the wisdom of the war plan becomes more apparent. (signed)

NEB/PT/MAR