Reflecting deep divisions among European Union countries on the Iraq war, the European Parliament last night failed to agree on any position on the week-old conflict, rejecting all motions.
The parliament voted down by 255-218 a joint resolution by the Socialists, Greens and Liberals that pointed to widespread public opposition to the war and the absence of UN legitimacy, and deplored the failure to give peace efforts more time.
It also threw out by 286 votes to 207 a motion by the centre-right European People's Party that blamed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein for the conflict and called for loyal cooperation in a transatlantic partnership with the United States.
The outcome highlighted splits within the 15-nation EU's political families, as well as among member states, that have dealt a severe setback to the bloc's efforts to develop a common foreign and security policy.
Britain, Spain, Italy, Portugal and Denmark all support the US-led war, while France, Germany and Belgium have led international opposition to military action.
- REUTERS
Herald Feature: Iraq
Iraq links and resources
Divided EU Parliament rejects all motions on Iraq
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