Saddam tape – WMD claims ‘baseless’
A tape purporting to feature the voice of former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein has dismissed as “baseless” coalition claims that Iraq has weapons of mass destruction (WMD).
The message, played on Arabic television, is said to mark the 35th anniversary of the Ba’ath party coming to power.
US troops have been put on alert for the anniversary, as coalition headquarters fear attacks by Saddam loyalists.
In the tape the speaker refers to recent events in Iraq and attacks the formation of the new US-backed Governing Council, saying it would not be able to serve the Iraqi people. The Council was only inaugurated on Sunday.
The voice said US and British claims about Iraq’s WMD capabilities were ‘lies’, stating: ‘The occupiers have unveiled their intentions to occupy and divide Iraq. All their allegations were baseless.’
The tape, broadcast on Al Arabiya satellite TV, also vows that resistance to the US occupation will intensify, and praised Iraqi towns where US troops have repeatedly come under attack.
Al Arabiya said the tape had been handed to one of its journalists in Baghdad.
The last tape claiming to be by the deposed leader was broadcast on Arabic television two weeks ago.
The Governing Council scrapped the traditional July 17th public holiday this week.
US forces have launched a massive search for Saddam and his family, but have been unable to capture him or provide evidence that he is dead.
