Against War with Iraq: An Anti-war Primer

Despite public outcry at home and international opposition abroad, the Bush Administration is deploying troops and investing millions of dollars in preparation for a massive military assault on Iraq. In this special edition pamphlet, three legal scholars from the Center for Consdtitutional Rights - Michael Ratner, Jennie Green, and Barbara Olshansky - persuasively argue that the looming war against Iraq is both illegal and unnessary for national security. The pamphlet exposes the Bush administration's justifications as pretexts, demonstrates that there is little evidence that Iraq currently possesses weapons of mass destruction, and argues that inspections are adeqaute to deal with any possible covert Iraq weapons program. The writers also emphasize that a war on Iraq will make the world less safe, and the Middle East and Iraq less stable; and that we in the United States will likely face more, not less, terrorism on our own soil as a result. Against War with Iraq explains that underlying the Bush administration's drive for war are its desire to dominate the Middle East, control Iraqi oil and ensure United States dominance for many years to come. The pamphlet provides a clear explanation of the meaning of the new United Nations Security Council Resolution and describes why that resolution does not authorize the U.S. to launch a new war. It explains that the Bush administration's new doctrine of pre-emptive strikes is flatly contrary to the United Nations Charter and may, if carried out, constitute a war crime. Against War with Iraq describes the high cost a new U.S. war against Iraq will have in terms of human life, as well as the economic political havoc it will trigger. Finally, the pamphlet describes numerous resources and activities for those interested in learning more or getting more involved. A timely and much needed antiwar primer, Against War with Iraq contains the core facts and analysis needed to understand the issues and become an effective advocate against hawkish U.S. foreign policy.

About Barbara Olshansky