Camp David: US President George W Bush said on September 14 that the United Nations must show "backbone" in disarming Iraq, and that Washington would "deal with the problem" otherwise.

"This is a chance for the UN to show some backbone and resolve as we confront the true challenges of the 21st century, a chance for the UN to show its relevance," Bush told reporters after meeting with Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi.

"But make no mistake about it, if we have to deal with the problem, we'll deal with it."

The comments were the latest in Bush's harsh rhetoric against Iraq following his speech on September 12 to the United Nations.

Berlusconi applauded Bush's UN speech on Iraq, but said Italy would remain a faithful ally.

"The United Nations cannot continue to have its image undermined and its decisions ignored," Berlusconi said.

In his weekly radio address earlier on September 14 also Bush focussed on Iraq, saying that "the status quo is totally unacceptable".

Reiterating much of his argument to the UN on September 12, Bush harshly criticised Iraq's non-compliance with 16 UN resolutions.

Bush also welcomed Congressional debate on Iraq expected next week.