THE ONSLAUGHT against Iraq is a dreadful business from which little good should be expected. Not that a better option existed.
Saddam Hussein, dictator of Iraq, made this attack necessary through seven years of obstructing U.N. resolutions to destroy his weapons of mass destruction. He made it certain by repudiating his Nov. 14 promises to allow unimpeded inspections. This is his doing, his choice and his timing.
The U.S.-British policies have been in place since President Clinton called off the bombers on Nov. 14 to give the dictator every chance to comply. The mission required no further U.N. instruction.
The broad timing of the strike was dictated by Saddam Hussein's obstructions of the U.N. Special Commission. The day was determined by the report late Tuesday of its chairman, Richard Butler, and the imminence of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
The initial negative responses by such Republican leaders as Sen. Trent Lott, Rep. Dick Armey and Rep. Tom DeLay reflect more adversely on them than on President Clinton. He has shown a remarkable ability to do his job under duress and distraction. Now Congress should do the same.
The one-day delay in the impeachment proceeding was right, but enough. Whatever argument there was for impeachment remains, as do the strong arguments against.
The troops in the Persian Gulf understand that impeachment is not about them. The foreign and military interests of the United States would not be interrupted by a trial before the Senate. Preventing Iraq's tyrant from deploying nuclear, chemical and biological weapons remains a high priority for the world community -- in spite of the unfortunate impeachment sideshow. Saddam Hussein used nerve gas against his own people and Iranian troops during the 1980s. He launched missiles against Israel in 1991. He rules through terror that feeds upon foreign crises.
The firm response of the United States, aided by Britain and Gulf states providing air bases, is in the civilized world's interest.
But it is thankless. While many traditional allies support the U.S. role, Russia, China and Iran have denounced it. That should not allow Saddam Hussein to rearm with proscribed weapons. Vigilance must be perpetual; easy victories should not be expected.
President Clinton, who has done his share of wrongs, did right this time. He ordered his responsibilities correctly.
Pub Date: 12/18/98