Later, Iraq submitted two additional letters, each of which apparently sought to convey that Hussein would allow U.N. weapons inspectors to resume "all their activities" under U.N. resolutions without condition.

CNN: Clinton

U.N. diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity because negotiations have been private, said Wednesday the United States was virtually certain to go along with the latest text.

NPR: Optimism In UN Over 1st Global Arms Trade Treaty

Meanwhile, legislation is being prepared by Senator Jim Inhofe that would, importantly, condition U.S. contributions to the U.N. on a U.N. promise not to pursue international taxation schemes.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: U.S. narrowly avoids "globotaxes" -- this time

The U.N. says the videotape does not shed any light on the circumstances of the abduction or the condition of the abductees.

CNN: U.N. to probe handling of Lebanon video