"If Saddam Hussein were to use chemical and biological weapons, this would change the situation completely and immediately for the French government."
That's what this is all about in the first place! Keep them from using these weapons, don't wait for them to use them to react.
Good lord. They just want deniability first, and then save face with the world second. Proves this is another case of wanting the U.S. take care of things rather than actually really help out taking care of business. At least Australia is going in on it now, unlike France.
"Uh, you guys go on in there. We got your back if it gets really ugly."
Yeah right. They won't do anything if it's easier, but they'll step up if it gets really nasty? I'm not holding my breath. Maybe it is a step in the right direction, and may give pause to Saddam before using chemical weapons, but I doubt it. I don't think he cares. Here's to hoping our guys don't get subjected to that kind of warfare though, it's rough enough as it is.