[01/27/1998]

34EA9B4C.FIN Page 1 of 2 Exchange Mail DATE-TIME 1/27/98 8:24:26 AM FROM Crowley, Philip J. CLASSIFICATION UNCLASSIFIED SUBJECT OPINION II [UNCLASSIFIED] TO Rubin, Eric S. CARBON_COPY TEXT_BODY TRANSLATED_ATTACHMENT opinion.doc OPINION USA: Wickham says that action against Iraq is too important to wait for a resolution of questions of Presidential misconduct. Congressional Republicans and the Vice President must give the President public support SO that he can act as appropriate against Iraq without distraction. (13) WSJ: Editorial sees South Korea, in contrast to Thailand or Indonesia, as taking appropriate steps to reform its financial system by enlisting the aid of the private sector, not just relying on the IMF. Editorial says that Presidential character does matter in times like these and will support the President in a substantial military campaign against Iraq. Forbes says we should make Saddam's fall from power an explicit national priority, declare a complete no-fly zone across Iraq, direct a Radio Free Europe-like effort against Iraq, and push for a national missile defense for the U.S. and allies. Melloan says that the President is the "leader of the free world" and the world will turn to Vice President Gore should he become President. (22-23) LAT: Editorial says that the President should not shrink from responsibility regarding action against Iraq, but must debunk the notion that he is acting to