British Defense Secretary Geoff Hoon said Thursday that war in Iraq may not conclude quickly, reiterating that the war's main objective is to topple Iraqi President Saddam Hussein.
"I would caution the House against suggestions that this campaign will be over in a very short time," Hoon told the lower house of the British Parliament.
"We all certainly hope that offensive operations will be over quickly, but we should not underestimate the risks and difficulties that we may face against a regime that is the embodiment of absolute ruthlessness with an utter disregard for human life," he continued. However, "Saddam Hussein's regime is the chief obstacle to the disarmament of Iraq. The military plan is therefore crafted around his removal from power," he said.
He also confirmed that the first wave of air attacks on Baghdad early Thursday morning were aimed at "very senior members" of the Iraqi leadership. He said the strikes were ordered following information on the whereabouts of figures "at the heart" of the regime.
Hoon also told the lawmakers that Prime Minister Tony Blair would make a broadcast to the nation once British forces get substantially engaged.
"Once the military action has begun and UK forces are substantially engaged, the prime minister will ask to make a broadcast to the nation," he announced.
Source:Xinhua News Agency
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