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U.S. Says Some Countries May Have Hidden Smallpox Viruses
Tuesday, November 5, 2002
(6:12 PM ET)
By GEORGE GEDDA
Associated Press Writer

U.S. officials believe Iraq and North Korea have chemical weapons and biological weapons other than smallpox. Over the years, there have been reports that Libya, Syria and Iran also have smallpox samples.

WASHINGTON -- AP
The Bush administration expressed concern Tuesday that several countries may retain the smallpox virus in violation of international rules.

The comment by State Department spokesman Richard Boucher followed the disclosure by a U.S. official that Iraq, North Korea, Russia and France probably possess hidden supplies of the deadly virus.

Al-Qaida is also believed to have sought samples of smallpox for weaponization, but U.S. officials don't believe the terror network is capable of mounting an attack with smallpox.

Evidence recovered in Afghanistan pointed to Osama bin Laden's interest in the disease, the U.S. official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.
(More: New Jersey Online News Source)
2002 © The Associated Press.

Dan