This
proposal focuses on several key points to reunite the SC and exert maximum pressure on Iraq.
Quote:
Final line of this proposal:
The combination of a clear program of action, reinforced inspections, a clear timeline and the military build-up provide a realistic means to reunite the Security Council and to exert maximum pressure on Iraq.
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I guess a couple of hundred thousand troops are good for something, but exactly what part of the military build up are the nations proposing this course going to participate in? While speaking to the press after the February 14 SC meeting, the French Foreign Minister acknowledged the importance of the military build up in getting the Iraqis to cooperate thus far, but when asked if France would send troops to the buildup he said he didn't think they were needed.
They aren't actually needed militarily, but if military pressure is important to the peaceful resolution of the conflict, wouldn't it make a strong statement to Iraq if France fielded these "pressure" troops? Of course it would, but it's obviously not the message the French government wants to send to Iraq, and it certainly isn't the message they want to send to the French people.
It must be nice for Chirac's government to be able to claim credit for leading the peace movement while blocking the US on the issue all the while using the US troops in the field as a bargaining chip against Iraq despite the fact that he doesn't want those troops used. Seems like a no lose situation.
BTW, if the military buildup is so important, and if the inspectors are given more time, and if those nations who make this proposal aren't willing to send their own troops, exactly how long does the Coalition of the Willing keep those troops in the field and who pays the bill? Surely France, Russia, and Germany are willing to help pay for this important
aspect of their proposal....
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[ 02-27-2003, 09:34 AM: Message edited by: Ronn_Bman ]