Iraqi President Saddam Hussein declared Thursday Baghdad is ready for another American full-scale offense but would defeat any new military campaign.
In a televised address marking the 11th anniversary of the start of the Gulf War, the Iraqi leader said Iraqis were more confident now than they were in 1991.
Saddam Hussein's speech came amid growing speculation that Iraq could be America’s next target in itss global war against terrorism.
The Iraqi leader declared that his country would not be caught off guard if attacked by American forces.
Commenting on the U.S. foreign policy the Iraqi ruler stated "The events of Sept. 11 and the American reaction to them came to reveal extensively how the United States is going headlong in antagonizing the world," adding "The ascent to the summit is not achieved by brutal force. But it needs a strength of mind and a sensitive human conscience."
Saddam said Iraq had benefited from the experience of fighting the US-led coalition - which went to war after Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1990 - and frequent attacks by US and British aircraft. "Will the performance of one who has sat an examination and passed it be higher and better, or lower and lesser?" the Iraqi leader asked.
On Wednesday, US President George W Bush said during his meeting with Turkish prime minister Ecevit that “We will consult closely with Turkey on any decisions that I make”. He added that, as of now, no decisions have been made about other arenas, except that of Afghanistan.
The U.S. President, however, declared regarding Iraqi President Saddam Hussein’s refusing to let in United Nation’s supervision “I expect Saddam Hussein to let Inspectors back into the country. We want to know whether he is developing weapons of mass destruction. He claims he is not. Let the world in to see. If he does not, we will have to deal with that at the appropriate time”.
In reply to a question asked what would happen if the Iraqi leader would refuse to do so, Bush commented “He will see”. (Albawaba.com)
© 2002 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
