RUMSFELD: IRAN, IRAQ, SYRIA FOMENT TERROR

From CNN April 3, 2002 Posted: 7:45 PM EST (0045 GMT)

WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld on Monday linked Iran, Iraq and Syria to the terror attacks on Israel, accusing the three nations of "inspiring and financing a culture of political murder and suicide bombing." At the Pentagon, Rumsfeld offered a searing indictment of Iran, Iraq and Syria as supporters of a terrorist "war on civilization."

Without venturing a judgment on Israel's method of retaliation, Rumsfeld suggested the United States would take stern measures under similar circumstances. "When the United States is hit by terrorist attacks, you have a choice: You can say, 'Gee, that's too bad,' or you can go try to find the terrorists and do something about it," Rumsfeld said.

Rumsfeld tore into Iran, Iraq and Syria for support they have given for years to groups whose assaults on Israel are now accelerating. "Murderers are not martyrs," Rumsfeld said. "Targeting civilians is immoral, whatever the excuse. Terrorists have declared war on civilization...."

The defense secretary said the point of his declaration was "to make it clear to sponsors and supporters of terrorists that being a friend to terrorists, and by implication an adversary of the United States, is not in their best interest."

Rumsfeld specifically accused Iran and Syria of funneling arms to Lebanon for use by terrorists and criticized Iraq for offering payments of up to $25,000 to families of Palestinian suicide bombers.

© 2002 Associated Press