We knew Iraq was dangerous. That's why we invaded in '92 and instituted sanctions and inspections subsequently. We thought Saddam would fall after the Gulf war. That he didn't was a testimony to his power, determination, cunning, and ruthlessness. Clinton singled him out in '98 as the single most dangerous enemy then facing the U.S.
But the evidence that he possessed WMD, or was trying to obtain them, or had strong connections with Al Queda just prior to our recent attack on him was nil - and that has been borne out subsequently. Which means to me that the Administration deliberately exagerated the immediacy of the dangers emanating from him.
You can play word games about "immediacy" and cite Bush's speeches to the contrary all you want. I don't buy it.