The United Nations Security Council, of which Ireland is a member, has unanimously approved a resolution giving Iraq a final chance to eliminate its weapons of mass destruction or face what it describes as serious consequences.
Those voting in favour included the council's only Arab member, Syria.
The resolution, drafted by the United States and co-sponsored by Britain, gives Baghdad a week to accept the terms and promise to comply.
The Taoiseach has said that the task ahead is daunting but essential. The Council's decision is a measure of its determination to deal with the issue of Iraq's weapons of mass destruction once and for all.
Bush warns Iraqi leader he must complyFollowing the vote, President George W Bush warned Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein Friday that he faces the "severest consequences" if he defies the resolution.
An agreement reached between France and the United States last night ensured that the measure would be passed, clearing the way for weapons inspectors to return to Iraq.
The support of all five permanent members sends the toughest possible message to Saddam Hussein. Weapons inspectors can now be deployed and Iraq has 30 days to declare all weapons of mass destruction.
If the inspectors report non-compliance, the Security Council will reconvene immediately for further discussion.
