CND Urges Restraint and Opposes Retaliation

The Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament unreservedly condemns the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Centre in New York and the Pentagon in Washington. We also wish to convey our sincere condolences to the families of those who have died, were injured or who are missing as a result of this atrocity.

Horrendous as the pictures and eye witness accounts from the United States are, we would remind commentators that speculation and accusations as to the likely perpetrators of this crime against humanity are heightening tension and encouraging talk of retaliation and revenge.

This is both counterproductive and dangerous. We urge restraint, a rational and non-military response and time for reflection. Despite the rhetoric, US foreign policy has not promoted democracy and freedom in the Middle East and regional instability is spreading, not contained.

One of the objectives of such an attack is to goad the US into making a violent response. A swift military strike against alleged terrorist bases outside of the restraints of international law must be resisted and this message must be conveyed to President Bush's administration. An escalating cycle of violent reaction would be the most likely outcome.

US forces have been put on military alert. USAF F15 'Strike Eagles' have all been returned to their reinforced shelters at Lakenheath in Suffolk. There are over 30 nuclear warheads in underground bunkers at this base.

Disturbingly, Prime Minister Blair has offered full co-operation for US efforts to punish the perpetrators of the atrocity. Tony Blair must not give unconditional support for the use of US forces based in this country for a military strike. Furthermore, he must not offer British forces as token support for any retaliatory strike as has been done in the past over the air strikes on Libya and Iraq.

CND calls on all concerned organisations and individuals to urge our government to show restraint and to actively dissuade the United States from military retaliation.

12 September 2001