Iraq's ruling Baath Party newspaper today accused certain states of not being "brave" enough to threaten to veto a US-drafted new UN resolution demanding Baghdad disarm or face military strikes.
Al-Thawradid not name these states but was clearly referring to Russia, China and France, all veto-wielding permanent UN Security Council members.
"Some governments would commit a grave mistake if they do not take the brave and suitable decision at the suitable moment," Al-Thawrasaid in reference to the veto power that these states enjoy at the Security Council.
"We know that these states have their own interests, but short-sighted consideration would threaten their strategic and vital goals," it said in a front-page editorial.
Washington and London are insisting on a tough new UN resolution setting out wide powers for UN weapons inspectors before they return back to Iraq. It would allow UN members, such as the United States, to decide when to carry out any military action should Baghdad not comply. Russia, China and France oppose this.
"Other [UN] Security Council member states should stand against the attempt to issue a new resolution and they should not bow to [US and British} pressure," the paper said.