14 SEPTEMBER 2002, Page 33

Saddam's nuclear revenge

From Mr Gordon King Sir: Regarding your leading article ('America's duty', 7 September), allow me to describe one possible nightmare scenario resulting from an American invasion of Iraq (there are undoubtedly others). The Americans move in force into southern Iraq. Saddam Hussein then detonates one or more pre-planted nuclear devices in their midst. Results: the invasion is halted at considerable cost in American lives; several hundred thousand Iraqis die — a matter of little concern to Saddam — who quite possibly stays in power; the Muslim world cheers; US reactions pose a real threat to world (and internal American) stability.

Gordon King

Godalming, Surrey