17 December 1998 Open Letter to The Secretary General of the United Nations The Members of the United Nations The Women's International League for Peace and Freedom is joining in the world wide protest of the unlawful bombing of Iraq by the US and British government. This outrageously aggressive attack has lead to death and destruction. It neither restores democracy, nor will it convince the Iraqi government to cooperate regarding weapons inspections. The reasons given by the US and UK governments for this latest bombing can barely hide their desire for exerting global control through military might. By showing military superiority, they are attempting to cover their failed leadership in finding political solutions to international conflicts and global as well as domestic problems. Mutually accepted and respectful political settlements are the only way to ensure stable democracy, peace and respect of international obligations. We strongly urge the members of the United Nations Security Council to denounce the unilateral military action against Iraq as a violations of the UN Charter. The double standard regarding the implementation of UN resolutions and ignoring ongoing military action taken by one country against another, is causing growing bitterness among people throughout the world. We call on the Secretary General of the UN to demand an immediate halt of the bombing and to address the seriousness of these violations of the UN Charter. The UN is responsible for overseeing the UNSCOM weapons inspection program, and only the UN Security Council can legally authorize military action against Iraq. We urge you to undertake a thorough examination of the reasons, why this process was not put into place. The difficulties in carrying out this mission do not justify for a military strike. Furthermore, we ask you to investigate the allegations made against the objectivity of UNSCOM. The integrity of the organization is at stake if such allegations go unanswered. This is the third unilateral military attack of a sovereign country by the US government, in this year alone. The violation of the UN Charter and the disrespect of the UN has been declared as its legitimate right by the US government. We see in this development a severe danger for world peace and a serious erosion of the framework of the UN. We call on all member states, not to accept this trend in silence and to make serious and meaningful efforts to maintain and restore the basic principles of international laws and agreements. Sincerely, Bruna Nota Barbara Lochbihler International President Secretary General Women's International League for Peace and Freedom International Secretariat 1, rue de Varembe C.P. 28 1211 Geneva 20 Tel: +41 22 733 61 75 Fax: +41 22 740 10 63