Rumsfeld backed Saddam even after chemical attacks (The Independent)

[IndianaGreen]

Rumsfeld backed Saddam even after chemical attacks
By Andrew Buncombe in Washington
24 December 2003

Fresh controversy about Donald Rumsfeld's personal dealings with Saddam Hussein was provoked yesterday by new documents that reveal he went to Iraq to show America's support for the regime despite its use of chemical weapons.

The formerly secret documents reveal the Defence Secretary travelled to Baghdad 20 years ago to assure Iraq that America's condemnation of its use of chemical weapons was made "strictly" in principle.

The criticism in no way changed Washington's wish to support Iraq in its war against Iran and "to improve bi-lateral relations ... at a pace of Iraq's choosing".

Earlier this year, Mr Rumsfeld and other members of the Bush administration regularly cited Saddam's willingness to use chemical weapons against his own people as evidence of the threat presented to the rest of the world.

http://news.independent.co.uk/world/americas/story.jsp?story=475931

[ScrewyRabbit]

1. I really hope this gets play in the media

This evil prick needs to be exposed.

[Bandit]

2. This has been kicking about DU for over a year and finally someone

picked up on it. I bet no American "Liberal Media" will report on it though. Wouldn't be prudent you know.

[ParticipatoryDem]

3. Got a link to the documents?

It would be nice to read the actual content.

[JoFerret]

4. Important story

.

[NIGHT TRIPPER]

5. kicketh

:kick:

[Junkdrawer]

6. Inoculation for the inevitable revelations of Saddam's trial...

That being said, I'd be surprised if this gets any domestic play.