COLIN POWELL travels to the United Nations today to “make the case” for war in Iraq. He will detail Saddam Hussein’s possession, ongoing development, and continued concealment of weapons of mass destruction. It’s a solid case, and most Americans buy it. As Senator Evan Bayh (D-IN) told me last week, “There is no doubt in my mind that if Saddam Hussein were put on trial for having weapons of mass destruction, he would be found guilty.” Those predisposed to agree with us will find it compelling. So will most of the fence-sitters, including Russia. But others determined to oppose doing something about those weapons–France, Germany, Syria and lately, Tom Daschle–will probably remain unconvinced.

While twelve years of noncompliance ought to be enough when the violations concern deadly weapons held by a murderous dictator, Powell is expected to reveal fresh evidence Saddam’s deception–behavior specifically prohibited, of course, by U.N. Resolution 1441 and its numerous precedents. Among those details will be intercepts of Iraqis plotting to trick inspectors and, later, celebrating their successful deception.