March 14, 2003, Washington D.C.
Secretary of defense Donald Rumsfeld voiced strong criticism today upon being informed that American teen pop star Brittney Spears is preparing to join international volunteers serving as “human shields” in Baghdad.
“This is just not helpful; quite frankly I can’t understand what she’s thinking. Not only does this complicate our pursuance of the difficult task of fighting terrorism abroad but shows how little Ms, Spears understands her threat to National Security. I’ve spoken with Lynne Spears, and I hope that she will talk some sense into her daughter.”

Mrs. Spears was not available for comment. This leaves doubts about whether possible US action in the Gulf would be affected by the celebrity.

 pr@ap.org