US prepared plan for NZ support on Iraq

A strategy briefing to the US Army just before the invasion of Iraq recommended ways to keep Kiwis on-side.

The report told civilian and military leaders to show respect for our anti-nuclear policy and gratitude for our post-conflict role.

Dr Andrew Scobell of the Strategic Studies Institute at the US Army War College prepared the briefing shortly before the war began on March 20, 2003.

He concluded New Zealand would be "one of the most circumspect countries regarding the merits of a war with Iraq".

He advised that:

* While not necessarily opposed to US goals in the war against terrorism, New Zealand strongly opposed some US methods while Australia would be "one of the staunchest supporters".

* Any use of WMD by the Iraqi military or terrorists would cause widespread outrage among New Zealanders.

* A long war would have a severe impact on New Zealand which relies heavily on international trade and imported oil.

* A long, bloody war with UN approval "will likely reinforce the critical attitudes among many New Zealanders towards the US".

* Senior US figures show appreciation for New Zealand's likely rebuilding role in Iraq, and publicly express respect for NZ anti-nuclear views.

* Affirm that good friends and allies can work together even if they disagree on other issues.

The report was titled "Strategic Effects of the Conflict with Iraq: Australia and New Zealand".