They've bought time, and obfuscation, both compliments of the U.N.
Exactly. By Sadaam's reasoning, he has used this as a way to make Bush look foolish or to weaken his position.
He only agrees to inspections when Bush goes before the UN to plead his case.
He has in effect said, "Rattle your sabre all you want. I will give you nothing until you ask the UN for permission, for I can string those fools along indefinitely and get a much better deal from them. The ball is in the UN's court now and they will not do your bidding."
I hope I'm wrong and GWB shows some sand and sits poised with his finger on the trigger...Sadaam's temple in the crosshairs.
But I don't think so.