Britain, US Prepared to Go Ahead Alone on Iraq: Foreign Secretary

Home>>World

Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Saturday, October 19, 2002

Britain, US Prepared to Go Ahead Alone on Iraq: Foreign Secretary

DISCUSSION

CHINESE

SEND TO FRIEND

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said Friday that his country and the United States would be prepared to take military action against Iraq, even without a new United Nations (UN) resolution, if Iraqi President Saddam Hussein refuses to allow in arms inspectors.

"We reserve the right to act within international law in respect of the use of force, which may or may not be covered by a new resolution," Straw told the BBC.

"It is entirely appropriate for America, as for us, to reserve their position if the UN does not meet its responsibilities," he said.

But the foreign secretary also stressed that Britain would be "completely committed" to a UN route if that is successful.

"If, for example, we end up being vetoed on statements which are as plain as daylight that is in flagrant breach of UN resolutions, then of course we are in a different situation -- we don't want to be there," he added.

The remarks were made after the United States had backed down in the United Nations from its previous demand for an automatic use of force amid almost unanimous opposition from member countries of the UN Security Council.

The United States on Thursday floated a revised version of the draft threatening military strikes against Iraq. The compromise would give UN inspectors a chance to test Baghdad's cooperation onthe ground, and it would come back to the council for further consultations on a possible second resolution authorizing use of force.

Britain has always been the closest ally of the United States since US President George W. Bush made clear that he would attack Iraq if President Saddam would not allow UN inspectors back to investigate Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.

Questions?Comments? Click here

Saddam Sworn in as President for Another 7-year Term

China Supports UN Debate on Iraq Issue: Spokeswoman

U.N. to Consider Using Forces Against Iraq if Inspectors Meet Difficulties: Russian minister

Why US Congress Grants Bush War Authority ( 9 Messages)

Jiang Expects In-depth Discussion with US President ( 8 Messages)

China's Automaker Invests in GM-Daewoo Joint Venture ( 10 Messages)

At least 182 Dead in Indonesian Island Blast: President ( 26 Messages)

HKSAR Expected to Have World-class University in Five Years ( 11 Messages)