A SECOND British soldier has died in combat, it was revealed today.
A soldier from the 1st Battalion The Black Watch died in action south west of Basra last night. That brings the British death toll in the conflict to 18.
Fears were also mounting among US intelligence sources today that Saddam Hussein has authorised the use of a chemical strike against coalition troops.
US TV networks were today reporting fears that Saddam Hussein has drawn "a red line" around Baghdad.
Once allied troops cross it, the networks say US sources fear Republican Guards have been authorised to use chemical weapons.
Despite stiffening resistance by Iraqi units and the failure to secure southern towns, the coalition troops have so far advanced to within 50 miles of the Iraqi capital as the battle for Baghdad looms.
However they have faced setbacks like a major sand storm which is expected to disrupt progress for the next few days.
US President George Bush is expected to ask Congress for almost $75 billion for the war, while today coalition troops declared Basra a "military target" amid warnings that there is a growing humanitarian crisis in the city.
At home, the Queen met Gwent service families with loved ones in the Gulf during a visit to an RAF base, see story on this site.
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