Bush to Address the Nation Tonight on Iraq

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 7, 2002

President Bush to Address the Nation Tonight on Iraq
Excerpts from the President's Address to the Nation on Iraq

(FOR NZ READERS... 8pm EDT = 1pm NZT)

As the United States Congress prepares for an historic vote on a resolution on Iraq, President Bush tonight will provide a comprehensive assessment of the threat Saddam Hussein's regime poses to the security of the United States and the World and our commitment to confront it.

In doing so, President Bush will answer specific questions many Americans are asking, including why this threat is unique: "While there are many dangers in the world, the threat from Iraq stands alone - because it gathers the most serious dangers of our age in one place.... By its past and present actions, by its technological capabilities, by the merciless nature of its regime, Iraq is unique."

President Bush will also make clear that the status quo is unacceptable and that the United States is prepared to lead a coalition to hold the Iraqi regime to account, saying: "The time for denying, deceiving, and delaying has come to an end. Saddam Hussein must disarm himself - or, for the sake of peace, we will lead a coalition to disarm him."

President Bush will reaffirm America's commitment to providing a better life for the people of Iraq: "America is a friend to the people of Iraq. Our demands are directed only at the regime that enslaves them and threatens us. When these demands are met, the first and greatest benefit will come to Iraqi men, women, and children."

Finally, President Bush will discuss the resolution to be voted on by the Congress and the important signal it will send to Saddam Hussein and the world, saying: 'Approving this resolution does not mean that military action is imminent or unavoidable. The resolution will tell the United Nations, and all nations, that America speaks with one voice and is determined to make the demands of the civilized world mean something.'

###

© Scoop Media