John D. Negroponte

“ In view of Iraq's material beaches, the basis for the cease-fire has been removed, and the use of force is authorized under resolution 678.
Iraq repeatedly has refused, over a protracted period of time, to respond to diplomatic overtures, economic sanctions, and other peaceful means designed to help bring about Iraqi compliance with its obligations to disarm and to permit full inspection of its WMD and related programs. The actions that coalition forces are undertaking are an appropriate response. ”