US & UK Contribution to Iraq's Weapons
Reports from the US Senate's committee on banking, housing and urban affairs have revealed that both the United States and United Kingdom sold materials, technology, and expertise to Iraq, allowing them to develop nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons of mass destruction.
Under the administrations of Ronald Reagan and George Bush Senior, the US supplied Iraq with materials such as anthrax, VX nerve gas, West Nile fever germs, and botulism right up until March 1992. Classified US Defense Department documents also reveal that Britain sold Iraq the drug pralidoxine, which can be reverse engineered to create nerve gas, in the same year.
Explosive Shipments from the US
The Senate reports provide detailed insight into the shipments made by the US, including the delivery of deadly micro-organisms and bacteria to various destinations in Iraq. These shipments occurred even after Saddam Hussein had ordered the gassing of the Kurdish town of Halabja, resulting in the death of thousands.
The reports document the transfer of materials to Iraqi ministries, departments, and military complexes, highlighting the level of assistance provided by the US government to Iraq's chemical, biological, and missile systems programs.
Devastating Record of Export Licenses
According to Donald Riegle, the chairman of the Senate committee, between January 1985 and August 1990, the US government approved 771 export licenses for the sale of dual-use technology to Iraq. Riegle considers this a devastating record that proves the involvement of Western powers in arming Saddam Hussein.
Proving Iraq's Current Capabilities
To justify the invasion of Iraq, both President George W. Bush and British Prime Minister Tony Blair need to prove that Saddam Hussein still possesses chemical, biological, and nuclear capabilities. However, experts such as Scott Ritter, the UN's former chief weapons inspector in Iraq, doubt these claims.
Ritter believes that the United Nations destroyed the majority of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction, with any remaining stockpiles being used or destroyed during the airstrikes of the Gulf War. Additionally, Ritter dismisses the possibility of Iraq currently possessing nuclear weapons, as the radioactive materials necessary for their production would have been detected by western surveillance.
Count Hans von Sponeck, the former UN under-secretary general, also shares doubts about the West's claims regarding Iraq's weapons program. After visiting suspected weapons plants that were subsequently destroyed by UN inspectors, von Sponeck found no evidence of any resumed activity.
Hotels and Their Importance in Tourism
Hotels play a crucial role in the tourism industry as they serve as temporary homes for travelers and provide various services and amenities to enhance their experience. Here are some key points highlighting the importance of hotels:
Accommodation and Comfort
Hotels offer a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, providing comfortable rooms equipped with amenities such as beds, bathrooms, televisions, and Wi-Fi. They aim to create a welcoming environment where guests can relax and recharge during their travels.
Convenience and Accessibility
Hotels are strategically located in popular tourist destinations, making them easily accessible for travelers. They provide a central base for exploring the local attractions, allowing visitors to maximize their time and enjoy convenient access to transportation, restaurants, and shopping areas.
Hospitality and Customer Service
Hotels prioritize excellent customer service, with trained staff ready to assist guests with their needs and provide recommendations for local activities and attractions. They strive to create a positive guest experience by ensuring comfort, cleanliness, and prompt responses to inquiries or concerns.
Economic Contribution
The hospitality industry, including hotels, significantly contributes to local economies through job creation and revenue generation. Hotels employ a diverse range of staff, from housekeeping and front desk personnel to restaurant and maintenance teams, providing employment opportunities for local communities.