IMHO, because we do not have a shield against tactical nuclear weapon yet, the attainment of such weapon (tac nuke) by exporters of strategic resources should be avoided. Of course I would prefer full inspection as the solution; however given Saddam's track record, I'm not optimistic. It is much better to take him out now than try to take him out after he attains tac nuke. To the extent that the US then would be able to station troops in a friendly Iraq, instead in the kingdom that is also custodian to Mecca, I think the result would be rather reduced tension with the Muslims of the middeast, who obviously do not like the idea of Christian soldiers in Saudi Arabia. I doubt scorched earth orders would be carried out in Iraq proper even if Saddam issues such orders.