Interview on Middle East Broadcasting Corporation

QUESTION: (Unrecorded.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY ARMITAGE: Well, I don't know how far away we can say war with Iraq is. Certainly, we don't prefer war. And I think the vote of the United Nations Security Council 15-0 calling for Saddam Hussein to disarm was an attempt to actually have peace. But it entirely rests in Saddam Hussein's hands. The ball is entirely in his court now.

QUESTION: (Unrecorded.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY ARMITAGE: Well, the United States has said that the disarmament of Iraq is the top priority, but we have also noted that there are many other United Nations Security Council resolutions which are on the books, including the necessity to respect the human rights of all the citizens of Iraq that we're very interested in.

QUESTION: (Unrecorded.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY ARMITAGE: Well, clearly, we need to see what the UNMOVIC inspectors find, and Mr. Blix will be the one who reports to the Security Council his findings. Of course, any nation has the right to bring material breach allegations to the Council. But, in general, it'll be the inspectors.

QUESTION: (Unrecorded.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY ARMITAGE: Well, if the Iraqis disarm totally and live up to their other responsibilities, of course there would be no need for sanctions. But I note that this is not a decision for the United States alone, of course; it is a Security Council decision and there are many views there.

QUESTION: (Unrecorded.)

DEPUTY SECRETARY ARMITAGE: Thank you. May I wish Ramadan Karim to all your listeners.