Purpose/Mission

Details: “protect the national security of the United States against the continuing threat posed by Iraq”; “take the necessary actions against international terrorists…, including those nations, organizations, or persons who planned, authorized, committed, or aided the terrorist attacks that occurred on September 11, 2001”; “support a transition to democracy in Iraq”; “to disarm Iraq”

Domestic Legal Authority

Details: “Consistent with the War Powers Resolution (Public Law 93-148), I now inform you that pursuant to my authority as Commander in Chief and consistent with the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution (Public Law 102–1) and the Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iraq Resolution of 2002 (Public Law 107–243)”

Claimed International Legal Basis

Details: Letter to UN states actions “are authorized under existing Council resolutions, including its resolutions 678 (1990) and 687 (1991)” and “necessary steps to defend the United States and the international community from the threat posed by Iraq”

Estimated Scope/Duration

Mission-bound but indeterminate

Details: “It is not possible to know at this time either the duration of active combat operations or the scope of duration of the deployment of U.S. Armed Forces necessary to accomplish our goals fully.”

Type of Enemy or Mission

Details: Iraq

Military Activity

Details: “commence combat operations… against Iraq”

US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Non-US Casualties Reported

Unknown

Reporting as it Relates to Termination Clock

More than 60 days sustained activity