President Clinton: We have struck back

Good afternoon.

Today, I ordered our armed forces to strike at terrorist-related facilities in Afghanistan and Sudan because of the threat they present to our national security.

I have said many times that terrorism is one of the greatest dangers we face in this new global era.

We saw its twisted mentality at work last week in the embassy bombings in Nairobi and Dar-es-Salaam, which took the lives of innocent Americans and Africans and injured thousands more.

Today, we have struck back.

'Terrorist bases'

The United States launched an attack this morning on one of the most active terrorist bases in the world.

It is located in Afghanistan and operated by groups affiliated with Osama bin Laden, a network not sponsored by any state, but as dangerous as any we face.

We also struck a chemical weapons-related facility in Sudan. Our target was the terrorists' base of operation and infrastructure.

Our objective was to damage their capacity to strike at Americans and other innocent people.

Four reasons

I ordered this action for four reasons. First, because we have convincing evidence these groups played the key role in the embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania.

Second, because these groups have executed terrorist attacks against Americans in the past.

Third, because we have compelling information that they were planning additional terrorist attacks against our citizens and others with the inevitable collateral casualties we saw so tragically in Africa.

And fourth, because they are seeking to acquire chemical weapons and other dangerous weapons.

'America will protect its citizens'

Terrorists must have no doubt that in the face of their threats, America will protect its citizens and will continue to lead the world's fight for peace, freedom and security.

Now I am returning to Washington to be briefed by my national security team on the latest information.

I will provide you with a more detailed statement later this afternoon from the White House.

Thank you very much.