Hagel Praises UN Repeal of Sanctions on Iraq

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The United Nations Security Council today overwhelmingly approved a resolution to end the 13-year-old sanctions against Iraq, grant the United States and Britain administrative authority over reconstruction in Iraq, and appoint a Special Representative for Iraq. The resolution passed by a vote of 14-0.

U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel issued the following statement following the Security Council's vote today:

"The Security Council's action today is a responsible step toward an international commitment to the successful rebuilding of Iraq. UN sanctions on Iraq were meant to keep revenues from Saddam Hussein, not punish the Iraqi people. By working with the United Nations and our allies, the Unites States and Britain's efforts to facilitate the transition to stability and democracy in Iraq will be enhanced.

Today's Security Council vote was a major victory for President Bush and Secretary Powell. They deserve credit for negotiating this critical resolution. The rebuilding of Iraq is an opportunity to reaffirm and repair alliances strained in the build-up to war in Iraq."