In 2003, President Bush determined that it was vital to the national security of the United States to invade Iraq and force the removal of Saddam Hussein’s government. In addition to the brutality Hussein inflicted on his people, including the use of chemical weapons, the Bush Administration believed Hussein was in possession of weapons of mass destruction. Colin Powell appeared before the United Nations to show aerial photographs that were interpreted as proof that Iraq was pursuing a nuclear weapon. Hussein’s refusal to cooperate with international inspectors lent credence to this belief. Further, the President accused Hussein of cooperating with al-Qaeda. Prior to beginning the invasion, the Bush Administration presented justification to the United Nations, and also attempted to resolve the nuclear weapon issue by working with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The United Nations issued numerous sanctions against Iraq. Seeking approval and cooperation from these international bodies before beginning the invasion is consistent with: a. the principle of double effect. b. natural law. c. positivist law. d. the "front page" test.
