For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
March 25, 2003
Text of a Letter from the President to the Speaker of the House of Representatives
Dear Mr. Speaker:
On October 16, 2002, I signed into law the "Authorization for Use
of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002" (Public Law
107-243). After condemning Saddam Hussein's continued possession of
chemical and biological weapons, obstruction of inspections, and brutal
repression of the Iraqi people, the Congress affirmed, "Iraq poses a
continuing threat to the national security of the United States and
international peace and security of the Persian Gulf region and remains
in material and unacceptable breach of its international obligations."
Subsequent to enactment of Public Law 107-243, the United Nations
Security Council unanimously agreed to Resolution 1441 offering Iraq
one final chance to disarm. After more than a decade of deceit and
defiance, the regime, yet again, failed to "fully and unconditionally"
comply. Iraq continues to pose a grave danger to global peace and
security. The United States and our allies must seek to disarm Iraq
and liberate the Iraqi people, and we will prevail.
Today, I submit a request for 2003 supplemental appropriations to
support Department of Defense operations in Iraq and to strengthen the
capabilities of our friends and allies who will share the burden of
military and stabilization activities. Disarming and liberating Iraq
is a first step. This request also provides immediate humanitarian
relief, support for reconstruction, and the development of a
free-market democracy in Iraq. Finally, the request will enhance the
safety and well-being of Americans at home and abroad with investments
managed by the Department of State, the Department of Homeland
Security, and other agencies.
This request reflects urgent and essential requirements. Much of
the funding has been requested with flexible authorities. This
flexibility will ensure requirements can be immediately addressed as
they arise despite the unpredictable scope, duration, and intensity of
operations. I ask the Congress to appropriate the funds as requested,
and promptly send the bill to me for signature. I urge the Congress to
refrain from attaching items not directly related to the emergency at
hand.
This supplemental request provides essential support to help
guarantee the success and safety of our men and women in uniform, to
help enhance the security of America and her citizens, and to
estab-lish an Iraqi nation, free, prospering and at peace with its
neighbors.
Sincerely,
GEORGE W. BUSH
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