Tom Lantos: “I am convinced that the removal of Saddam Hussein is in the interest of the people of Iraq, the people of the region…”

“I am convinced that the removal of Saddam Hussein is in the interest of the people of Iraq, the people of the region, and the people of the United States. And I believe the day when a civilized regime is in place, in a stable Iraq, is not far off. This supplemental comes in two parts. I am, of course, totally committed to all of the funds in this bill for the safety and security of the brave men and women of our armed services. Since the reconstruction component of this bill is indispensable to achieving our goal of seeing Iraq become a functioning and independent society, I also support the reconstruction portion of the supplemental, with one key modification. Let me explain. Iraq is potentially one of the wealthiest nations on this planet. The oil wealth of Iraq is estimated at $7 trillion. My colleagues, that is seven thousand billion dollars. I find it absurd, Mr.…”