Despite the passing of the Jan. 27 deadline for weapons inspectors in Iraq, efforts in the Middle East continue.
While the Pentagon called up more troops to the region this weekend, Hans Blix, chief U.N. weapons inspector, spoke to the U.N. Security Council.
“Iraq appears not to have come to genuine acceptance–not even today–of the disarmament which was demanded of it, and which it needs to carry out, to win the confidence of the world and live in peace,” Blix said.
His statement to the Security Council outlined the inspectors’ progress and attempted to explain any discrepancies the team had ran into while combing sites around the nation.
Tuesday night, President George W. Bush further pushed his case to the world in the State of the Union address, questioning the whereabouts of biological agents such as anthrax and chemical weapons, like the VX nerve agent.
Bush also questioned the feasibility of a nuclear Iraq, claiming that Saddam has attempted to purchase weapons-grade uranium from African nations.
However, much of Bush’s speech focused on American security and the possibility of military action against Saddam.
“We will consult, but let there be no misunderstanding: If Saddam Hussein does not fully disarm, for the safety of our people and for the peace of the world, we will lead a coalition to disarm him,” Bush said.
The president’s words may be easier said than done because the Security Council nations of France, China and Russia announced they
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will veto any resolution granting the use of military force against Iraq.
Secretary of State Colin Powell will address the United Nations on Feb. 5. According to NBC News, the statement may not provide the smoking gun for which the Bush administration is looking to give to the international community, but will provide stronger evidence for the case against Iraq’s disarmament.
“The speech has not changed anything,” said Dr. Jean-Robert Leguey-Fieux, professor of political science at Saint Louis University. “[Bush] still has not produced convincing evidence.”
Leguey-Fieux further cited that even Senators and Congressmen, such as Senator Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-Cal.) have not latched on to the president’s plan.
He also noted that Europe is more focused on the elimination of terrorism and not one state itself.
“One can say that Iraq is supporting terrorists with training grounds, but so have other countries.” Leguey-Fieux said.
He also said international support is lacking because U.S. attention toward Iraq came so abruptly after the operation in Afghanistan.
Later this week, Bush will be meeting British Prime Minister Tony Blair to discuss the crisis.
