Powell plays down ‘war on Iraq’ claims
Speculation that the United States is preparing for an imminent military strike against Iraq were played down today by Secretary of State Colin Powell.
The Gulf War general said America wanted to see ‘‘regime change’’ in Baghdad, but that military planners are yet to present President George W Bush with options for action.
He also tried to damp down speculation that the US would be prepared to ‘‘go it alone’’ by saying the country was in constant talks with its European and Middle Eastern Allies.
Speculation has mounted in recent weeks that Mr Bush would order action to topple Saddam Hussein sooner rather than later after he included the country in his ‘‘axis of evil’’ speech.
European diplomats in Washington now acknowledge Saddam’s removal is a question of ‘‘when not whether’’, and that planning is beginning on the means of ending the dictator’s regime.
Mr Powell told American broadcaster NBC’s Meet the Press programme that Mr Bush had yet to be presented with military options, which would be the key stage in him moving to war against Iraq.
‘‘There is no plan or military option that has been brought forward by the president’s military advisers,’’ he said.
But he said Saddam had to allow United Nations weapons inspectors into his country immediately with no ‘‘funny business or conditions’’ to ensure he was not developing chemical, biological and nuclear weapons.
‘‘We have insisted all along the inspectors should be allowed to return, otherwise the sanctions remain in place,’’ he said.
‘‘What we might do in the future I do no know.
‘‘The president has made it clear that he reserves all his options.’’
He also tried to ease fears of unilateral American action against Iraq and said: ‘‘We are in constant consultation with our European allies and our friends in the region.’’
But asked if America could ‘‘go it alone’’, he said: ‘‘Of course it is possible.
‘‘It is more difficult if one does not have access in the region and we would rather do it with the supporting of the international community.
‘‘But, of course, the president is examining all options.
‘‘Just remember, this is a president who acts with deliberation, prudence and patience.’’
Mr Powell also underlined the new American position that Saddam must go by saying it is looking at how to back opposition groups in Iraq and hinting that rather than unilateral military action, there could be support for a coup or rebellion.
‘‘There are, we believe, opposition persons and forces that would give us a better turn of the cards in Iraq,’’ he said.
But he added: ‘‘I never like to discuss covert operations and whether they are do-able or not do-able.
‘‘You can be sure that we are examining all possible options.’’
