The United States accuses Iraq of trying to develop nuclear, biological and chemical weapons in violation of U.N. resolutions dating back to the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

CNN: Cheney: Saddam working on nuclear weapons

During the debate over whether to invade Iraq, the Bush administration argued repeatedly that Iraq was violating U.N. resolutions requiring its disarmament after the 1991 Persian Gulf War.

CNN: Ex-Iraq inspector: Prewar intelligence failure 'disturbing'

By evading U.N. sanctions and frustrating arms inspections since the 1991 Persian Gulf War, Saddam poses "exactly the kind of aggressive threat the United Nations was born to confront, " he said.

CNN: Bush: U.S. will move on Iraq if U.N. won't