Last week Rep. Barbara Lee (D-CA) introduced a House resolution calling for the United States to work through the United Nations to renew arms inspections, assure Iraqi compliance with U.N. resolutions, and to oppose unilateral first strike military action.

It reads in part, “Whereas the short-term and long-term costs of unilateral U.S. military action against Iraq and subsequent occupation may be significant in terms of United States casualties, the cost to the United States treasury, and harm to United States diplomatic relations with other countries: Now, therefore, be it Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the United States should work through the United Nations to seek to resolve the matter of ensuring that Iraq is not developing weapons of mass destruction, through mechanisms such as the resumption of weapons inspections, negotiation, enquiry, mediation, regional arrangements, and other peaceful means.”

Rep. Cynthia McKinney from Georgia is one of 26 sponsors of the bill. Last Thursday she questioned Secretary of State General Colin Powell at the House International Relations Committee on the need of an attack against Iraq.

Tape:

• U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney (D-GA)
• U.S. Secretary of State General Colin Powell

Related links:

• Text of U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee’s Iraq resolution:
• U.S. Rep. Cynthia McKinney