Iraq still risks becoming failed state: US presidential hopeful Clark

0 Comments | AFP, December, 2003

THE HAGUE (AFP) — The capture of Saddam Hussein is only the first step in achieving stability in Iraq, which still risks becoming a "failed state," US presidential candidate and retired general Wesley Clark said.

"His capture is not sufficient ... the entire resistance was probably not run by a pathetic dictator hiding in a hole in the ground," Clark said in a lecture to the Dutch Clingendael Institute for international affairs.

"Iraq is still in danger of becoming a failed state and a failed state would be a stunning success for al-Qaeda," the democratic hopeful for the 2004 elections added.

Asked about a possible trial for Saddam, Clark repeated his standpoint that every form of punishment should be considered for the former dictator including the death...