The Bush administration and Britain are planning to present a new resolution to the U.N. Security Council on Monday.
Finishing touches were being put on the resolution on Thursday. The Bush administration sees little value in extending inspections and much to worry about in Iraq's alleged connection to al-Qaeda and other terror groups.
One U.S. official told AP the projected day for presenting the resolution was Monday but that it could slip a day or two.
Secretary of State Colin Powell said: "We won't put a resolution down unless we intend to fight for the resolution, unless we believe we can make the case that it is appropriate."
On his part, Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld said Thursday evening the buildup of tens of thousands of troops in the Persian Gulf region has reached the point that they could launch an invasion if the president orders one. Asked on PBS' "NewsHour With Jim Lehrer," if the U.S. and British forces massed in the area are ready to go to war, Rumsfeld replied: "Yes."
Meanwhile, Iraq allowed another flight by an American U-2 surveillance plane Thursday. It was the second flight this week by a U-2 in support of the U.N. inspection program. The Iraqi Foreign Ministry said the plane spent six hours and 20 minutes over Iraq's territory. (Albawaba.com)
© 2003 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
