[Malcolm]

The only reason to have gone through the UN is to save Tony Blair's rear end. Maybe some of you State Dept nuts can clue me in on any other legit reason to have gone to the UN, a dead-end street for American interests. It delayed our action, (LOL, don't give me any crap about it taking 6 months minimum to move our forces to the Middle East; we all know it doesn't take nearly that long), gave time for opposition to grow domestically and worldwide, (not a obstacle, but not something that is desirable either), and gave Saddam time to prepare for the invasion, (not that he could stop it, but a lot of casualties could result, that a surprise attack would not have allowed). But like I said, show me the NECESITY, other than Blair, for the UN to have to be part of this. I've got an open mind, but it would take a lot to convince me otherwise.....

[Beck_isright]

The UN is our smokescreen while we move assets as is the State Department.

[RobFromGa]

My guess is that we needed the 6 months time to:
1. rebuild our smart bomb supplies
2. take out Islamic terror cells in the US and Europe
3. get ready for the next stage in this war (which will happen quickly after Iraq is liberated).