"We think it will be very unwise if, suddenly, Syria becomes a haven for all these people who should be brought to justice, who are trying to get out of Baghdad," Powell said in a BBC television interview.

Syria had been a concern in Washington "for a long period of time", Powell said, alleging that Damascus was a state sponsor of "terrorism" and a supplier of military supplies to Saddam's regime.

"And so are making this point clearly and in a very direct manner to the Syrians," he told the "Breakfast with Frost" program. "We hope the Syrians will respond accordingly."

On Friday US President George W. Bush urged Damascus to close its border with Iraq to prevent followers of Saddam crossing into Syria and asked it to turn over any who might already have taken refuge in the country.

SPACE.WIRE