MoD Information

British Forces Involved in Iraq

Thu, March 20, 2003

Source: Ananova News

British forces have already been involved in some of the military operations against Iraq, Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon has confirmed.

British forces have already been involved in some of the military operations against Iraq, Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon has confirmed.

Mr Hoon told the Commons the military plan was "crafted around" removal of Saddam Hussein from power.

He warned the operation may not be over "in a very short time" and wished all the troops a "safe and swift return."

Once "further significant" military action has begun and UK forces are "substantially engaged," the Prime Minister will make a broadcast to the nation, Mr Hoon said.

Reporting to MPs for the first time since hostilities commenced, Mr Hoon confirmed the first attacks had been against "targets of military importance" in the vicinity of Baghdad, involving coalition aircraft and cruise missiles.

This followed information on the whereabouts of "very senior members" of the Iraqi regime.

"Those leaders are at the very heart of Iraq's command and control system, responsible for directing Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.

"Saddam Hussein's regime is the chief obstacle to the disarmament of Iraq. The military plan is crafted around his removal from power."

The overnight assault, together with yesterday's preliminary attacks on air defence systems, were "prudent preparatory steps".