Australia and striking Iraq

The Australian prime minister John Howard said on Wednesday in an attempt to calm down opposition demonstrators for Australia's involvement in any military act against Iraq, that Canberra will not take part in any attack against Iraq unless that in the service of a national interest.

Howard said that the US did not ask Australiafor any military contribution if it will attack Iraq.

On the other hand, Gen. Peter Philip, the chairman of the old veterans League in Australia said that the diplomatic solution is the best concerning the Iraqi issue.

Howard and his government who support the US policy were greatly criticized by political opponents after opinion polls showed the opposition of the Australians to directing a military action against Iraq.