When giving his Radio Address President Bush stated, “The liberation of Iraq was good for the Iraqi people, good for America, and good for the world. The fall of the Iraqi dictator has removed a source of violence, aggression, and instability from the Middle East. The worst regime in the region was given way to what will soon be among the best. The demands of the United Nations were enforced, not ignored with impunity. Years of illicit weapons development by the dictator have come to an end. The Iraqi people are now receiving aid, instead of suffering under sanctions. And men and women across the Middle East, looking to Iraq, are getting a glimpse of what life in a free country can be like…
There are still violent thugs and murderers in Iraq, and our coalition is dealing with them. Not long ago, we intercepted a planning document being sent to leaders of al Qaeda by a terrorist named Zarqawi. Along with the usual threats, he had a complaint: “”Our enemy,”” said Zarqawi, “”is growing stronger and his intelligence data are increasing day by day. This is suffocation!”” Zarqawi is getting the idea. The resolve of our coalition is firm. We will never turn over Iraq to terrorists who intend our own destruction. We will not fail the Iraqi people, who have placed their trust in us. Whatever it takes, we will fight and work to assure the success of freedom in Iraq.”
– George W Bush, “President’s Radio Address”, George W Bush – White House Archive, March 20, 2004, Accessed 8-16-16