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National Security Committee alerts FSM of looming war

PALIKIR, Pohnpei (FSM Information Service): March 19, 2003 - In light of United States President George W. Bush's 48-hour ultimatum to Iraqi President Sadaam Hussein, the National Security Committee urges citizens of the Federated States of Micronesia to exercise caution when traveling outside of the nation.

The committee further urges everyone to be vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.

On March 18 2003, at 12 pm Pohnpei time, the people of the Federate States of Micronesia had, along with the rest of the world, listened to the United States President George W. Bush issue a 48-hour ultimatum to Iraqi President Sadaam Hussein and his sons to go into exile or face "military conflict."

President Bush's statement from the White House began with, "events in Iraq have now reached the final days of decision," a message signaling the end of the numerous efforts by the United States and its allies to compel Iraq to destroy its weapons of mass destruction.

The President's message to the American people stated that non-compliance with the two-day ultimatum, set to expire at noon Thursday - March 20, 3002 (Pohnpei time) would prompt military action at a time to be set by the US.

More than 225,000 US military troops have converged in the Middle East region awaiting orders.

President Bush has advised the immediate evacuation of "all foreign nationals, journalists and inspectors" from Iraq.

Citing intelligence reports, the US Department of Homeland Security raised the national threat level from "Elevated" or Level Yellow to "High risk of terrorist attack" or Level Orange.

Given the special relationship between the FSM and the US, FSM citizens currently serving in the US military.

President Leo A. Falcam urges the people of the nation to observe a moment of silence at noon Thursday - March 20, 2003 (Pohnpei time) in support of the FSM men and women serving in the US military.

The FSM National Government will keep the Nation informed on developments in Iraq and the world security situation.