World News

France opposes immediate attack on Iraq

France bluntly told the United States on Jan. 20 that it would not support an attack on Iraq in the coming weeks, a position that diplomats said was shared by most of the 15 U.N. Security Council members.

French Foreign Minister Dominique de Villepin hinted at using his veto against any resolution authorizing military force. "We believe that nothing today justifies envisaging military action," he said.

Villepin's position reflected apprehension among a number of council members that the Bush administration wanted immediate support, choosing a timetable based on when the weather was best for the U.S. military.

A counterterrorism meeting took place on Jan. 20 involving foreign ministers of Security Council members. The meeting was called by Villepin, whose country holds the council presidency in January.

German Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer gave a solid "no" to military action, while Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan argued that U.N. weapons inspectors should be given more time.

U.S. Secretary of State Colin Powell warned that the Security Council must "make a judgement" and not shirk its responsibilities once the inspectors give their report.

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw gave the only sign of support for the United States, saying that "time was running out" for Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and his "cat and mouse" game.

But he added that Britain preferred a U.N. resolution authorizing force, which is not required under resolution 1441.

Shukan ST: Jan. 31, 2003

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