quote:
Originally posted by Barry the Sprout:
Right - back after a good nights sleep to return to this discussion!
Ronn, Saddam did not refuse them access to the country. I believe he signed a treaty allowing them in pretty much everywhere except private residences. A lot as been said about how the weapons could have been hidden inside these buildings. The weapons inspectors don't seem to think that was practical and it does slightly beggar belief if we are now going to ignore what they say. Eventually the weapons inspectors were pulled out. Why? The pressure apparently came from the other end, not Hussein. This admittedly leaves open the problem of why the West want the weapons inspectors out. I have my own theory but I would generate far too much flaming if I posted it. Suffice to say that any war that happens will not be out of self -defence in my mind.
Also, I never said that Saddam never had weapons. I said that 95% of all weapons had been accounted for by now. So he had them 10 years ago - we have dealt with the problem and don't need to attack him now for it. The primary concern here is whether or not he is dangerous and everything I have seen suggests he is not. As you say, none of us can be sure. But just what are you willing to risk to prove it when we are already almost certain? All the evidence points to there being no need for a war. All the evidence points to there being a war about to happen. Does this not add up to anyone else? Am I the only one having problems with it?
Saddam did refuse access to more than private residences. Several facilities that were to be investigated refused access. A great trick he used was denying access for a week or two, and then allowing the inspectors in. Well, two weeks would be plenty of time to remove any illegal operations.