Moscow: The war against Iraq by the United States would begin in February 2003, but President Saddam Hussein will not be killed, a famous Russian astrologer has predicted.

"A final decision on Iraq war will be taken on January 4-5," Pavel Globa said at a press conference, adding, "the war itself may begin on February 18-20, when the Sun will move from the Aquarius into Pisces."

Globa had reportedly predicted September 11 attacks in the United States in 2001 and their far-reaching impact on Afghanistan and neighbouring countries, end of Yeltsin presidency in 1999 and an obscure politician replacing him.

"If the Americans fail to use this favourable stellar moment, they would hardly ever be able to launch the operation against Iraq," Globa added.

Saddam Hussein would not be killed in the probable war, only one of his "doubles" would be destroyed. "The Iraqi President would mysteriously disappear and his spectre would haunt the West for a long time," he predicted.

He also predicted a "time of serious test" for US President George W Bush in the autumn of 2003 including a possibility of assassination bid on his life.

According to Globa's predictions, in February 2003 the era of Pisces would be replaced by the era of Aquarius and the events of the New Year would determine the global situation for next 70-75 years.

"In this 70-75 year period, a lot would depend on charismatic leaders of leading nations in shaping global events," he added.

PTI