How the world is split

Nations ready for war

US: Bush says time is running out and that US will go to war with "coalition of the willing" if UN fails to act. Huge troop build-up under way.

Britain: Closest US ally despatching quarter of its army to Gulf. Saddam must be dealt with although UN route preferable.

Kuwait: No love for Saddam after Iraqi invasion of Kuwait, where 17,000 US troops stationed. Pro-US stance triggered unrest.

Israel: Ariel Sharon fears Israel could be target for Iraqi weapons of mass destruction, after Scud missiles fired during Gulf War.

Spain: Right-wing government of Spain, a non-permanent Security Council member, gung-ho behind Bush, ignoring public opinion.

Italy: Silvio Berlusconi, the Prime Minister, holds line behind Bush, although there are no plans for Italy to provide troops.

Australia: Conservative government describes any opposition to war as "appeasement" and follows US closely.

Waiting for the UN

France: Has consiustently stuck to position that UN is the only body with right to declare war. Holds veto power in Security Council.

Russia: Traditionally in camp of "friends of Iraq", believes there is no proof of Iraq still holding weapons of mass destruction.

China: Wants UN inspectors to be given more time. Unlikely to use its Security Council veto as national interests not at stake.

Germany: Gerhartd Schröder's coalition staked out anti-war position to stay in power and has held it since joining Security Council.

Turkey: Pro-Islamic government, caught in a dilemma over US military demands, heading regional meeting tomorrow to avert war.

Saudi Arabia: Conferring with Arab leaders to avert war, but denies offering oil strategy to Saddam. Hosts British military personnel.

Jordan: Desperate for diplomatic solution to avoid war that could spill over border and cause unrest among pro-Saddam Palestinians.