Iraq is continuing a diplomatic offensive to convince neighbouring countries to harden opposition to any US-led military action against it.
The Iraqi Foreign Minister Naji Sabri, who is touring Gulf states, has called for solidarity against the US, warning that any attack would damage the stability of the entire Middle East.
There are now signs that America may consider a French proposal for a two-stage process which would delay authorising military action.
Speaking in Bahrain, a key US ally, Mr Sabri said US threats against Iraq were directed at the whole Gulf.
The King of Bahrain welcomed Iraq's decision to allow UN weapons inspectors to return but also stressed that Iraq must comply with UN resolutions.
Bahrain's Foreign Minister, Muhammad Al-Khalifa, said the US would still be a close ally of Bahrain if it attacked Iraq.
