[hchutch]

If he viewed al-Qaida as a potential adversary, why is he granting them sanctuary?

You heard the President's speech. Al-Qaida is in Iraq. THAT triggers the September 14, 2001 resolution.

[traditionalist]

If he viewed al-Qaida as a potential adversary, why is he granting them sanctuary?

Al-Qaeda forces are in Northern Iraq, a part of the country not under his control.