US drops threat resolution on Iraq

FRANCE and Russia were studying a new US compromise for a Security Council resolution on Iraq yesterday, as Moscow said it might agree to military action if Baghdad fails to co-operate with weapons inspections.

In an effort to end a five-week impasse among the permanent council members, the US, backed by Britain, dropped a demand that a resolution explicitly authorise military force against Iraq.

The new offer was designed to win support from the other three permanent members of the council France, Russia and China which want to give Iraq a chance to co-operate with weapons inspectors without the threat of force.

Still, the US administration said there would be consequences if Iraq fails to comply. French diplomats were reported to be pleased with the US offer, which eliminates the threat of using "all necessary measures" against Iraq.