Gary Fitleberg, December 23, 2003

While the entire world has been focused on Iran and its possible nuclear program for weapons of mass destruction it has largely ignored Libya.

Libyan leader Moammar Kadhafi has admitted trying to develop weapons of mass destruction but now plans to dismantle all such programs, according to President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

President Bush said Libya's decision -- which would open the country to international weapons inspectors -- would be "of great importance" in stopping weapons of mass destruction in a global fight against terrorism.

Britain and the United States have been talking about the issue with Libya for nine months, Prime Minister Blair reported.

"Libya came to us in March following successful negotiations on Lockerbie to see if it could resolve its weapons of mass destruction issue in a similarly cooperative manner," Blair said in England.

At the White House, Bush said the war in Iraq and efforts to stop North Korea's nuclear program had sent a clear message to countries such as Libya that they must abandon weapons programs.

"In word and in action, we have clarified the choices left to potential adversaries," Bush said. That was an apparent reference to Iran and North Korea, two other countries that the United States contends are trying to develop weapons of mass destruction.

Without naming them, Bush added: "I hope other leaders will find an example" in Libya's action.

If Libya follows through with its commitment, Bush said, "its good faith can be returned."

U.S. intelligence agencies, in unclassified publications, say Libya has developed a nuclear infrastructure, but officials stop short of saying the country is definitely trying to develop a nuclear weapon.

Libya was probably seeking chemical weapons and dual-use items that could be used in a biological weapons program, intelligence reports say.

According to a recent unclassified report to Congress, Libya's longest-range missiles were thought to be Scud-B ballistic missiles. These have a range of 186 miles. U.S. intelligence reports suggest Libya has been seeking missiles with longer ranges.

Libya had relied heavily on foreign assistance for its weapons programs. It had already made overtures suggesting it would slow or halt its programs to improve its international standing.

The U.S. intelligence statements on Libya's alleged weapons programs suggest efforts in that country were not as advanced as Iraq's were before the U.S.-led invasion.

Before the U.S. should consider lifting sanctions it must make Libya prove its intentions with inspections regarding its nuclear program.

Gary Fitleberg is a Political Analyst specializing in International Relations with emphasis on Middle East affairs.

Copyright © 2003 Gary Fitleberg