Government News Index
PM hints at backing for Iraq attack
AAP
21mar02
PRIME Minister John Howard has signalled his support for military action against Iraq, saying it is unrealistic to think that the roots of terrorism are only in Afghanistan.
But Mr Howard said it did not necessarily follow that Australia would contribute to any attack on Iraq.
Speaking ahead of meetings with British Prime Minister Tony Blair and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, Mr Howard said he understood the American view that the end of action in Afghanistan would not be the end of the war against terror.
"Speaking for Australia, I can accept the view ... that a successful prosecution of the military operations in Afghanistan does not of itself represent the completion of the war against terrorism," Mr Howard said.
"The idea that terrorism and its sources are only to be found in Afghanistan is a complete misreading of the situation."
But Australian involvement in other operations would not follow automatically from its activity in Afghanistan, he said.
"If we received a request from the United States in relation to activity elsewhere, we would consider that request against the background of its merits and our determination to stand with the Americans in the fight against terrorism and the long and close relationship that exists between our two countries," he said.
"We are not automatically committed in advance to be involved in any operation the Americans undertake.
"But if they do ask for our involvement we'll look at it very sympathetically and consistently with the willingness that we have shown in the past to align ourselves where we believe what they are doing is not only just but also in Australia's national interests."
Mr Howard said there was no request at this stage for any further involvement.
But he expected to discuss the issue with Mr Straw and Mr Blair today.