He said he had "no imminent war plan" or timetable for confronting Iraq.

The world economy was weak before Washington confronted Iraq, he said.

Questions about the administration's plans should not be equated with lack of sympathy for the objective of confronting Iraq.

"Nobody knew which way you were going to go" in confronting Iraq.

Secretary Powell's appearance today was significant because he has long been considered the most cautious member of the administration when it comes to confronting Iraq.

But in confronting Iraq, the United States is part of an international coalition.

Even as the administration struggles with its allies, it is also facing pressure at home to go slow in confronting Iraq.

In confronting Iraq, it is best "to be able to choose your own timing and terrain," she said today.

But officials said the president's and the nation's grief would not deter him from confronting Iraq over its weapons programs.

In confronting Iraq, the United States is also showing our commitment to effective international institutions.