Draft of Iraq Dossier released! Does not include 45 minute claim!

[ck4829]

An early version of a British dossier of prewar intelligence on Iraq did not include a key claim about weapons of mass destruction that became vital to Tony Blair's case for war, the newly published document showed Monday.

The 2002 document insisted Saddam Hussein's regime had acquired uranium and had equipment necessary for chemical weapons, but does not contain a claim that Iraq could launch weapons of mass destruction within 45 minutes — an allegation crucial to Blair's push to back the 2003 U.S.-led invasion — that later was discredited.

Campaigners allege that the 45-minute claim was inserted into later drafts of the document on the orders of Blair's press advisers, who were seeking to strengthen the case for invasion — a claim the government has strongly denied.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080218/ap_on_re_eu/britain_iraq

[aint_no_life_nowhere]

1. Bush's Global Message of September 26, 2002 made the claim

Right at the White House website:

http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/09/20020926-19.html

Global Message

The security of our country is the commitment of both political parties, and the responsibility of both elected branches of government.

Elected officials are working for a strong Congressional resolution that sends a clear message: UN Security Council demands must be followed and the Iraqi dictator must be disarmed. These requirements will be met, or they will be enforced.

The danger is grave and growing. The Iraqi regime possesses biological and chemical weapons and is rebuilding facilities to make more. It could launch a biological or chemical attack 45 minutes after the order is given. The regime is seeking a nuclear bomb -- and, with fissile material, could build one within a year.

Iraq's regime has longstanding and continuing ties to terrorist groups -- there are al-Qaida terrorists inside Iraq. The regime also practices the rape of women and the torture of dissenters and their children as methods of intimidation.

The President has made it clear: we refuse to live in a future of fear. We are determined to build a future of security and peace for the world.

[LynnTheDem]

2. "Curveball" is laughing his Iranian ass off.

George W. bUsh and Tony the bLiar handed terrorists a win beyond their wildest imaginations.

Slowly, slowly, Amreicans are beginning to realize the fact. The Brits realized it long ago.