The deployment of 1700 Special Forces troops to the Philippines southern region has sparked controversy over the legality of such action under Philippine law. The Philippine Constitution prohibits foreign military invervention not sanctioned by treaty, and the nation's Supreme Court has previously ruled that visiting American forces may only fire in self defense.

Turkey has reportedly (tentatively) agreed to allow use of its bases for an attack against Iraq, but only after shrewd negotiations and a demand for $30 billion in grants and loans. Many are questioning the wisdom of buying diplomatic and strategic assistance, citing the need to avoid submitting to extortion in foreign policy.

Some western European nations are divided between governments which support the US position unconditionally and populations which oppose it outright. The Spanish PM is gambling his (and maybe his party's) political standing on a strategic military alliance with the US, even as more than 80% of the population opposes military action in Iraq.

UPDATES:
NEW OBSTACLES
1 March 2003

The Turkish parliament, under severe public pressure, has voted to refuse to allow US troops to launch a northern campaign against Iraq from Turkish soil. The US administration is reportedly cautious and awaits "clarification" of the vote, presumably clarification of whether or not this is the final word. [Full Story]

WORLD BRACES FOR WAR
18 March 2003

Last night, US president George W. Bush declared that Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein would have 48 hours to quit his post and leave the country, if he wishes to prevent a devastating military campaign. Dissident European allies of the US insist that diplomatic options have not been exhausted, and they will persist, even in the face of impending war, in their efforts to achieve a "miracle" truce. [Full Story]