Military leaders question Iraq plan

WASHINGTON — As President Bush tries to rally European support for military action against Iraq, U.S. armed services leaders are questioning whether their forces are ready for another war.

The chiefs of the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines have concluded that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld must address concerns about an overtaxed military before they can plan action to oust Saddam Hussein, senior uniformed officials with knowledge of the debate said.

The military leaders don't oppose a war against Iraq. But their go-slow approach could clash with the civilian leadership of the Pentagon, which believes Saddam's government can be toppled easily.

One of those officials acknowledged that the military chiefs have serious problems with the battle plans under development. The official said the concerns aren't over how to oust Saddam but other possible war aims. It isn't clear whether the military would be required to destroy the Iraqi military or remain in Iraq after the war.