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Anthrax Quote by Richard Armitage

“According to the United Nations Special Commission [UNSCOM], which carried out inspections in Iraq for the better part of a decade, Iraq possesses some 25,000 liters of anthrax. This is, for the record, more than 5 million teaspoons of anthrax. And we have no idea where any of it is. Saddam…” quote by Richard Armitage
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“According to the United Nations Special Commission [UNSCOM], which carried out inspections in Iraq for the better part of a decade, Iraq possesses some 25,000 liters of anthrax. This is, for the record, more than 5 million teaspoons of anthrax. And we have no idea where any of it is. Saddam Hussein has never accounted for one grain of it.”

Richard Armitage

About This Quote

Source Report: United Nations Special Commission (UNSCOM) inspections, Iraq, 1990s

The quote highlights the massive, unaccounted stockpile of anthrax in Iraq and the lack of knowledge about its location, underscoring a serious security risk.

In simple terms: Huge anthrax stockpiles exist in Iraq with unknown whereabouts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and address hidden biothreats.

Themes

security bioterrorism accountability transparency

Mood

concerned urgent

Type

policy warning

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • military planning
  • public health preparedness
  • diplomatic negotiations

Key Concepts

risk assessment non‑proliferation intelligence gathering

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can the international community improve verification of covert weapons?
  • What are the risks of unknown biothreats?
A Different Perspective

Limited public data may obscure true scale; verification is challenging.

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