Bush administration officials have accused Syria of harboring people linked to Saddam Hussein's regime and developing chemical weapons.

CNN: Lawmaker: Syria vows not to harbor wanted Iraqis

The UNODA estimates that by the 1970s and '80s, 25 states were developing chemical weapons capabilities, and that since the end of the First World War, such munitions have caused more than 1 million casualties globally.

CNN: SHARE THIS

While various administration figures, including President Bush, have in recent days warned Syria about harboring senior members of the Iraqi leadership and of developing chemical weapons, Pentagon officials brushed aside questions about any possible military action against Syria.

CNN: Pentagon: 'Major combat' over, but smaller fights remain

President Bush upping the ante on America's war against terrorism and the United States officially urging Nato this week to get tough with countries who may be developing biological, chemical and nuclear weapons.

BBC: Breakfast with Frost

Why not instead first press on the non-proliferation front and seek strong sanctions against those who have used chemical weapons, who threaten to use them or who are developing them?

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Summit Watch: Tough Questions For President Bush