Wolfgang,

United Nations Security Council Resolution 1441 may be ambiguously worded - where it is not, is in reference to previous resolutions.

Where 1441 mentions "serious consequences" other resolutions mentioned in 1441 refer to enforcement of compliance by all necessary means.

As resolution 1441 specifically mentions those earlier resolutions and does not take precedence over those resolutions, they still stand in effect.

In 1441 Saddam was given one final opportunity to comply with existing UN Security Council Resolutions - he has failed to take that opportunity - the 1991 cease-fire agreement has been ignored - as a result of which hostilities may resume.