Responding to chemical attack. Final report

Technical Report · Mon Feb 11 04:00:00 EST 1991

OSTI ID:5345210

Bagley, R W

In view of Iraq's stated intention of using chemical weapons in the Persian Gulf War, the Coalition forces must be prepared to respond. Iraq is capable of conducting such an attack. While the use of chemical weapons may not be militarily significant, the political effect of the use and the response to it may be very significant. Responses including the use of chemical and nuclear weapons are assessed in terms of their legality, political cost, and military effectiveness and found unacceptable. Reliance on diplomatic protests and on post-war criminal sanctions are judged ineffective. A response in the form of increased conventional attack on the Iraqi chemical infrastructure is recommended because that response will preserve the present Coalition, effectively counter the chemical attack, contribute to regional stability, and enhance the reputation of the United States for lawfulness and dependability.

• Research Organization: Naval War Coll., Newport, RI (United States). Dept. of Operations
• OSTI ID: 5345210
• Report Number(s): AD-A-236609/4/XAB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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