"you don't like it pointed out that there was no authorization by the UN for the US to use force against Iraq in 2003." - Ron Davies to me.

"Did the UN give the US authorization to attack Iraq in 2003 or not?" - Ron Davies to pdq

Now Ron states that his simple question deserves a simple answer. OK Ron what does your simple question actually ask?

1) Was there any UN authorisation for the US attack on Iraq in 2003?

OR

2) In 2003 did the UN authorise the US to attack Iraq?

Which is it Ron? Your, "Now was there such authorization in 2003 or not?" would seem to favour 2) above, and in that you are correct, the authorisation to "do whatever is necessary" predates 2003, but for the sake of good order was included by reference in the wording of UN Security Council Resolution 1441 which was passed in 2002.

I believe that authorisation did exist because of the broken Safwan cease-fire agreement.

I also realise that UN authorisation was not required, nor will it ever be required by any country in the decision making process when that country is faced with what is perceived as being a clear external threat, to itself, its allies or to its national interests.

You are not going to convince me of anything different, nor I you, so I will gladly accept that on this issue we agree to differ.