Bush Seeks Support From Congress On Iraq

U.S. President George Bush will ask Congress today to grant him the authority to use military force against Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein. Bush is demanding that Iraq comply with 16 UN resolutions - including full disarmament - or face severe consequences. He hopes to secure legislators' approval to oust Saddam Hussein before they return to their homes states in preparation for midterm elections in early November.



At the same time, the White House is preparing to introduce a resolution to the U.N. Security Council as early as Friday calling for action against Iraq. However, the administration maintains that even if the proposal is rejected, the US might still target Baghdad, without the support of the international body. The U.S. cites a clause in the U.N. charter that allows countries to go on the offensive for self-defense purposes.