U.S. Weighs U.N. Command in Iraq, but With a Condition
By DOUGLAS JEHL
WASHINGTON, Aug. 27 — The Bush administration signaled for the first time today that it might be willing to allow a multinational force in Iraq to operate under the sponsorship of the United Nations as long it was led by an American commander.
The idea was described by the deputy secretary of state, Richard L. Armitage, as just "one idea being explored" in discussions at the United Nations. Such a plan was first described publicly last week by the United Nations secretary general, Kofi Annan.
Still, Mr. Armitage's remarks signified an important shift in course for the administration, which has until now insisted that all military, economic and political matters in Iraq remain under American control. By allowing the United Nations to assume more authority, the United States would be aiming to win the support of the Security Council for a new mandate authorizing the American-led occupation of Iraq.
There's a strong chance the anti-American forces won't see this as a fundamental change. There's a strong chance Iraqis won't see it as a move to benefit Iraqis.
