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Spain's Recently Elected Prime Minister Says He Will Withdraw Troops in Shortest Time Possible; Mourners Observe 168 Seconds of Silence Honoring Those Killed in Oklahoma City Bombing

Aired May 04, 2004 - 10:00   ET

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.

THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.


DARYN KAGAN, HOST: Good morning. From CNN headquarters in Atlanta, I'm Daryn Kagan. Let's get started with a check of the day's top headlines.
In Iraq, there were no injuries when a rocket hit the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad. The compound did sustain minor damage and was unoccupied at the time, officials are not clear if the rocket was meant for the compound. Sweden opposed the U.S.-led war in Iraq.

Months before a number of high profile events, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge wants to speed up plans to deal with any possible terrorist attacks. Ridge is in Las Vegas speaking about the anti- terror preparedness plans, with an eye on the upcoming Democratic and Republican National Conventions, the Group of Eight economic summit and celebrations of the July 4 and Labor Day. Officials say Ridge's call to action is going to national, state and local authorities, and is not based on any specific threat information.

Friends and family of a missing college student found dead Saturday are in mourning and are calling for justice. Many attended a memorial last night for Dru Sjodin; she had been missing since last year. Police found her body in a ditch just outside of Crookston, Minnesota. Angry relatives say they want the killer to face justice; Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. is charged with kidnapping Sjodin. He has pleaded not guilty to that charge.

And the chairman and CEO of McDonald's has died. Company officials say that Jim Cantalupo died earlier today of an apparent heart attack, while on business in Orlando, Florida. Cantalupo was a 28-year veteran with the fast food giant. Earlier last year, he opted out of retirement to head up a company rejuvenation. Cantalupo was 60 years old.

The first hour of CNN LIVE today begins right now.

Live this hour, nine years to the minute in Oklahoma City. It is a grim gathering for those who survive the terrorist attack and the families of those who did not, as they gather at the national memorial. Convicted conspirator Terry Nichols is in court hoping to go avoid death for his role in the 1995 attack.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

KAGAN: Children there reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. We're expecting in just about a minute for them -- for there to be 168 seconds of silence, one second for every victim on that day, nine years ago.

And we'll be back to Oklahoma City in a moment. Other news now.

What about the president know? When did he know it? Those questions first cast a shadow over the White House over 30 years ago. Today, Watergate reporter Bob Woodward again scrutiny presidential intent in a new book, it's called "Plan of Attack." Author Woodward maintains that President Bush started planning the war in Iraq just three months after the 9/11 attacks. And Woodward says the plans were developed without the involvement of the administration's top diplomat.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIPS)

BOB WOODWARD, "THE WASHINGTON POST": So he told Condi Rice, he told Rumsfeld. He knew Cheney wanted to do this and they realized they hadn't told Colin Powell, the secretary of state. So Condi Rice says to the president...

MIKE WALLACE, "60 MINUTES": Are you serious?

WOODWARD: I'm serious. And so Condi Rice said, "You better call Colin in and tell him."

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR: Colin Powell had been privy to all of the national security meetings to conversations with the president. The only thing that I was saying is, Mr. President, if you're beginning to think that the diplomacy is not working, it's probably time to have a conversation with the secretary of state.

(END VIDEO CLIPS)

KAGAN: All right. Here how Bob -- here is how Bob Woodward figures out his timeline of events leading to the war in Iraq. Late July 2002, the president approves spending of $700 million to prepare for a war on Iraq. The money is diverted from a congressional appropriation for the war in Afghanistan.

December 21, 2002, Woodward says that CIA director George Tenet briefs the president and vice president on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.

Tenet assures them that the case against Saddam Hussein is, quote, "A slam-dunk." Then Woodward says on January 13, 2003, the president meets with Secretary of State Colin Powell telling him, quote, "I really think I'm going to have to do this." Meaning invade Iraq. Powell, despite his reservations about a war, agrees to support the president's decision. And then Woodward says that on March 19, the president issues the order to go to war.

You'll hear directly from Bob Woodward tonight. You'll have a chance to ask your own questions. He is scheduled to appear on "LARRY KING LIVE," that's 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 Pacific right here on CNN.

And right pack to Oklahoma City. Here is the 168 seconds of silence.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Will you join me in your tradition as we pray?

KAGAN: We've been listening in to the 168 seconds of silence, said as a salute, as a memorial to the 168 people who died nine years ago today at Oklahoma City as a result of that bombing. Later at the service, later in the hour, they will be reading each individual's names, 168 names there at Oklahoma City. More on that.

Right now, more on the fight in Iraq. The American death toll has passed yet another milestone there. More than 700 U.S. military personnel have been killed since last March. That includes 12 Americans who died over the weekend and pushes the April death toll to 100. That makes this the deadliest month for U.S. forces since the initial invasion of Iraq more than a year ago.

Spain's recently elected Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriquez Zapatero says he will withdraw his 1400 troops in the shortest time possible. Let's get the latest now from Baghdad.

Our Jim Clancy joining us from the Iraqi capital -- Jim.

JIM CLANCY, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, good evening from Baghdad. Daryn, you know, there has been cool weather that's moved here into central Iraq, and at the same time, the U.S.-led coalition taking some dramatic steps to turn down the temperature in the troubled town of Fallujah, the scene of some very heavy fighting over the last two weeks or so. Fighting that has caused an estimated 1000 Iraqi lives, many of them civilians. Many Marines have been killed or wounded as well in that fighting that started after four U.S. contractors were killed.

Some dramatic moves announced this day that include the U.S. making a commitment not to go on the offensive. Opening up routes for ambulances in the city. Saying it wants to mount joint patrols with Iraqi police to restore order.

But all of the moves by the U.S.-led coalition really are hinging now on what the community, the religious and the tribal leaders there in Fallujah can deliver back. The coalition wants to see a handover of heavy weaponry; arms like surface-to-air missiles, rockets, all of the ammunition associated with that, machine-guns, all of that. See it turned in. Will they be able to deliver? That's the big question. No one has ever really seen a negotiator on their side during all of these days of talks that has been able to speak for the insurgents there. But a lot of people are going to look at this as a way to really turn down the temperature, as I said, in Fallujah.

At the same time, the coalition trying to analyze what will be the impact now of Prime Minister Zapatero of Spain's announcement he's going to be withdrawing his 12 to 1400 troops sooner rather later from Iraq, perhaps in the coming two weeks. The Polish commander in the south central region saying only the U.S. would be able to fill the gap. At the same time, we're hearing from the U.S. administrator, Paul Bremer, he doesn't think that Iraqi security forces or police are in any shape right now to assume full security control after the June 30 handover -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Jim Clancy with the latest from Baghdad.

More now on Spain's decision to withdraw from Iraq. It says it does not end its commitment in the region. Spanish leaders say that they will work with the United Nations and European Union to rebuild Iraq. Spain also says its willing to double its troop strength in Afghanistan that is another front on the war on terror.

And now, the latest on Thomas Hamill. He is the American civilian contractor who was last seen with his abductors. Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson says that he will contact religious leaders in Iraq to seek Hamill's release. Jackson says he's also talked to Hamill's wife and shared prayers. Kelly Hamill appeared earlier today on CNN's "AMERICAN MORNING."

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

KELLY HAMILL, WIFE OF THOMAS HAMILL: I'm just real hopeful that he can. I'm not quite sure, but you know, I have the faith and we're going to trust in, you know, in Mr. Reverend Jackson and see what, you know, if it's going to help.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: Hamill was taken hostage after the ambush of his convoy. That was 10 days ago just outside of Baghdad.

At least one U.S. soldier was also seized in that attack. He is Private Keith Matthew Maupin, a 20-year-old Army Reservist who videotaped as he was held at gunpoint.

Our Chris Lawrence is in his hometown of Batavia, Ohio -- Chris.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, Daryn, it's been an incredibly tough morning for the family who are dealing with this privately at their home right down the street. We talked with one of the Army officers who has been inside the home with him. He says they're literally jumping every time the phone rings, wondering if that is word from Iraq.

But many people here are very encouraged by some things they've seen and heard in that videotape released on Friday. Specifically the fact that Matt Maupin did not appear to be roughed up. That even though his captors were armed, they did not directly threaten him and they offered to possibly negotiate his release in some sort of trade for other prisoners being held by the coalition.

You know, if anybody can understand what he's going through right now, it is former POW Jessica Lynch. She actually called Matt Maupin's mother last night, offered a lot of encouragement, told her to stay very hopeful to his safety. And Jessica Lynch's mother also called her mother-to-mother, they talked for about 10 minutes with her telling Mrs. Lyn -- Mrs. Maupin that what to expect when, not if, her son Matt comes home.

But anywhere that this family goes around town, they are going to see an incredible amount of support. There has been a campaign to tie yellow ribbons on just about anything standing in the area. So wherever the family is going to go, they're going to see how much support they have, that support coming from not only here in town but all over the country. Jesse Jackson also offering his help. Although we have learned this morning that he has to go through the Army, and he has not yet been in direct contact with the family -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Chris Lawrence in Batavia, Ohio, thank you. And welcome to our CNN family! Good to have you on board.

LAWRENCE: Thank you.

KAGAN: It has been nine years since the Oklahoma City bombing. We go back to that story now. Victims and families remembering their loved ones, as a key witness takes the stand in the state trial of Terry Nichols.

Also, more than 700 troops killed in Iraq. We are live from the Pentagon on the state of U.S. troops there.

You've seen a lot about head-on crashes. What if you're broadsided from the side by a bigger vehicle? The Insurance Institute says the impact could be fatal. The effort to make your car safer, the results on CNN LIVE TODAY.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Well, there we go. A live picture from Oklahoma City. Mourners observing just a few minutes ago, 168 seconds of silence honoring those killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. This is a live picture that we're taking from Oklahoma City. Today marks the ninth anniversary of that blast. A memorial in the city will open its field of empty chairs for those attending the ceremony. Later this hour we expect the reading of 168 names, the victims nine years ago today.

As the city remembers the tragedy, a case against one of the conspirators continues. Prosecutors in the case against Terry Nichols are set to put their star witness on the stand.

And for more on that, let's bring in our Susan Candiotti in McAllister, Oklahoma -- Susan. SUSAN CANDIOTTI, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Daryn. This is not only the ninth anniversary but also the 11 anniversary of that tragic event at Waco. You will remember that is what led Timothy McVeigh in his own words to carry out his attack on Oklahoma City. Just a few minutes ago on this very day at this very moment, nine years ago, that is when he used a fertilizer and fuel oil bomb to blow up the Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people.

And here in McAllister, the state trial against Terry Nichols, the state is seeking the death penalty against him, goes on. It is week five. He arrived in the courtroom just a little while ago, after having been brought to the courthouse as he usually is under heavy security. Again, the main witness taking the stand this day is a continuation of someone who was on the stand on Friday. It is the FBI agent who interviewed Terry Nichols at length not long after the bombing, and he'll probably be on the stand most of the day.

As you will recall, Terry Nichols is being tried on 161 murder counts. Those are all of the victims who were not federal agents who were killed in the attack. And this day, many of the victims' relatives, who are here in the courtroom normally, would be attending the memorial in Oklahoma City. But instead, it was their turn through a lottery system to attend this trial 130 miles away. They will be staring Terry Nichols down to watch his every move. They, many of them, would like him to be put to death, if indeed, he is found guilty on state murder charges. You'll recall he is already serving a federal life sentence on other bomb charges.

Now, at noontime today, many of the family members, who are here, will be attending a private memorial service at a nearby church that has been providing refuge for these relatives attending the trial. During that service, the names of all 168 victims will be read. And then for many of these relatives who are attending the trial, it will be back to the courtroom for another long day of hearing testimony -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Susan, question about this trial. Even among some of the victims' families isn't the holding of this trial somewhat controversial? Some people said this was not the best allocation of state funds.

CANDIOTTI: Yes, for some relatives and for some other Oklahomans. In fact, a majority of them, they felt that holding this trial was redundant. That after all Terry Nichols had already been trial on federal murder charges and has got a life sentence against him. And so they thought it was a waste of time and money. But the majority of the victims' relatives think it is a good idea. And they said that they, too, deserve to have justice served for their victims who technically, Terry Nichols, Timothy McVeigh never had to face charges for their deaths. They were only charged for the murder of the eight federal agents -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Susan Candiotti in McAllister, Oklahoma, thank you.

Allegations about the plan for war in Iraq, reaction from the White House on Bob Woodward's new book about the president's plan of attack.

And making your move without losing your mind! Gerri Willis has some tips to keep you sane on moving day.

GERRI WILLIS, CNNFN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Hey, Daryn. Good to see you. Now, we made our big move into the Time Warner Center and we've got some great advice for you if you're planning a big move. Stay with us on CNN LIVE TODAY.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

KAGAN: Other business news. It is almost the end of April. Are you gearing up for one of those first of the month -- first of the month moves? If so, we have some tips on how to get your stuff out of your old home and into your new one, all in one piece.

And this is really ringing true for Gerri Willis because aren't you guys the first of the people to move into our new Time Warner Center.

WILLIS: That's right, Daryn. We're the guinea pigs.

KAGAN: The homesteaders.

WILLIS: CNN Financial News are having us do it first. And it's going great, I got to tell you.

KAGAN: Great. But there is good ways to move not just office, but your home as well. and that's what you have tips on today?

WILLIS: That's right. My first tip here, be ahead of the game and plan early. You know, everybody typically moves in the spring and the summer. You need to set up your plans four to six weeks ahead of time, that is if you want to get the mover you want and the delivery dates and times that you really need.

I just wanted to show some pictures here, too, of our own move and how we packed up. You know, how we packed up...

KAGAN: Oh, Myron Kandel!

WILLIS: Oh, you recognize him? Yes, our financial editor here. And we also have pictures here of our new digs as well, Daryn, you'll get to see. It's beautiful over here! Let me tell you.

KAGAN: Wait. We have to get to the new stuff. I think we're looking at the old stuff getting packed up.

WILLIS: OK. All right.

KAGAN: Meanwhile, did Myron really new all that stuff to the new place or did he clean out?

WILLIS: Well, truth be told, I think he packed up 14 boxes of books that went to a local library. And he's moving half now and half later. It was a big job. KAGAN: Yes, letting go of things. Now, we're looking at some of the new digs?

WILLIS: Great.

KAGAN: And eventually, we should tell folks CNN-fn is over there and eventually all of CNN, all of the big shows, all the fancy New York people moving there to Columbus Circle?

WILLIS: Yes, I'm telling you, Daryn, it's really pretty up here. And we're just testing out all of the new facilities. And as a matter of fact, some things are working and some aren't, but we're doing really well this morning. Let's get to the next tip, though.

KAGAN: We'll keep our fingers crossed. OK. You're talking about getting the moving company you want. How do you know which moving company that you want?

WILLIS: Well, you really got to shop around, Daryn. Here is the thing. A lot of people don't realize that the moving industry is one of those industries packed with scam artists. So you really have to shop carefully particularly be careful online. But one resource I want to point people to, if you're getting ready to move, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, it's a mouthful. But these people maintain a list on their website of people who are on the up and up, movers that are registered with them go to fmcsa.dot.gov for information. And of course, as always, call your better business bureau because they're going to have lots of ideas, too.

KAGAN: And then as you shop around, you should get some estimates from the different companies?

WILLIS: Yes. You want to get at least three movers to bid on your business. Get written estimates always, because it's the scam artists say, oh well, I can come underneath those bids that you've got right now. And I'm going to low ball you. And then they end up charging you an arm and a leg. So be sure to do that.

And make sure that you get a binding estimate, too. That's always a great idea. You know, if you've got stairs or something in your apartment or your house, you're going to find that you're going to be paying more. And if they have to pack a lot at the last minute, they didn't expect, that will add to your cost, too.

KAGAN: And what about making sure that you're protected in case something is broken?

WILLIS: Here is the number that shocked me. One in five moves involve some kind of claim for damage, Daryn. I mean that's a pretty high percentage. If I was moving, I'd be worrying about it. You want to make sure you got the right insurance to cover that in case you do have a problem. Look for something called Full Value Option. That's what you want -- the insurance you want to get from the mover, because that's what's going to cover the entire value of your goods if they're damaged.

KAGAN: And then what about on the big moving day?

WILLIS: Well, be on hand. That's the biggest tip. Because if you're not there, you can't ensure that things are going right. and if you are on hand, you can take inventory of the boxes as they leave and that's critical to do. Make sure you have the bill of lading, that's the contract between you and the mover, with you on hand at all times. And you know, just, you know, be on hand so that they know that you're watching and you're taking notice of what's going on -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Very good, Gerri Willis. Well, happy new office space in your new office building.

WILLIS: Thank you.

KAGAN: Did you get a good office?

WILLIS: Yes. We've got great offices. It's you know, like knock wood. I think things are going pretty well here.

KAGAN: OK. All right. Hopefully it will keep up that way. Gerri Willis, thanks from New York.

WILLIS: Thank you.

KAGAN: Coming up on CNN LIVE TODAY, another Hamas leader is killed. Now many wait anxiously for a possible reprisal.

We're live from the White House with reaction to a Watergate reporter's latest accusation that a war with Iraq was part of the president's early plan.

(COMMERCIAL BREAK)

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Aired May 4, 2004 - 10:00   ET
THIS IS A RUSH TRANSCRIPT. THIS COPY MAY NOT BE IN ITS FINAL FORM AND MAY BE UPDATED.
DARYN KAGAN, HOST: Good morning. From CNN headquarters in Atlanta, I'm Daryn Kagan. Let's get started with a check of the day's top headlines.
In Iraq, there were no injuries when a rocket hit the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad. The compound did sustain minor damage and was unoccupied at the time, officials are not clear if the rocket was meant for the compound. Sweden opposed the U.S.-led war in Iraq.

Months before a number of high profile events, Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge wants to speed up plans to deal with any possible terrorist attacks. Ridge is in Las Vegas speaking about the anti- terror preparedness plans, with an eye on the upcoming Democratic and Republican National Conventions, the Group of Eight economic summit and celebrations of the July 4 and Labor Day. Officials say Ridge's call to action is going to national, state and local authorities, and is not based on any specific threat information.

Friends and family of a missing college student found dead Saturday are in mourning and are calling for justice. Many attended a memorial last night for Dru Sjodin; she had been missing since last year. Police found her body in a ditch just outside of Crookston, Minnesota. Angry relatives say they want the killer to face justice; Alfonso Rodriguez Jr. is charged with kidnapping Sjodin. He has pleaded not guilty to that charge.

And the chairman and CEO of McDonald's has died. Company officials say that Jim Cantalupo died earlier today of an apparent heart attack, while on business in Orlando, Florida. Cantalupo was a 28-year veteran with the fast food giant. Earlier last year, he opted out of retirement to head up a company rejuvenation. Cantalupo was 60 years old.

The first hour of CNN LIVE today begins right now.

Live this hour, nine years to the minute in Oklahoma City. It is a grim gathering for those who survive the terrorist attack and the families of those who did not, as they gather at the national memorial. Convicted conspirator Terry Nichols is in court hoping to go avoid death for his role in the 1995 attack.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED FEMALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: And to the Republic for which it stands, one nation, under God indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

KAGAN: Children there reciting the Pledge of Allegiance. We're expecting in just about a minute for them -- for there to be 168 seconds of silence, one second for every victim on that day, nine years ago.

And we'll be back to Oklahoma City in a moment. Other news now.

What about the president know? When did he know it? Those questions first cast a shadow over the White House over 30 years ago. Today, Watergate reporter Bob Woodward again scrutiny presidential intent in a new book, it's called "Plan of Attack." Author Woodward maintains that President Bush started planning the war in Iraq just three months after the 9/11 attacks. And Woodward says the plans were developed without the involvement of the administration's top diplomat.

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIPS)

BOB WOODWARD, "THE WASHINGTON POST": So he told Condi Rice, he told Rumsfeld. He knew Cheney wanted to do this and they realized they hadn't told Colin Powell, the secretary of state. So Condi Rice says to the president...

MIKE WALLACE, "60 MINUTES": Are you serious?

WOODWARD: I'm serious. And so Condi Rice said, "You better call Colin in and tell him."

CONDOLEEZZA RICE, NATIONAL SECURITY ADVISOR: Colin Powell had been privy to all of the national security meetings to conversations with the president. The only thing that I was saying is, Mr. President, if you're beginning to think that the diplomacy is not working, it's probably time to have a conversation with the secretary of state.

(END VIDEO CLIPS)

KAGAN: All right. Here how Bob -- here is how Bob Woodward figures out his timeline of events leading to the war in Iraq. Late July 2002, the president approves spending of $700 million to prepare for a war on Iraq. The money is diverted from a congressional appropriation for the war in Afghanistan.

December 21, 2002, Woodward says that CIA director George Tenet briefs the president and vice president on Iraq's weapons of mass destruction.

Tenet assures them that the case against Saddam Hussein is, quote, "A slam-dunk." Then Woodward says on January 13, 2003, the president meets with Secretary of State Colin Powell telling him, quote, "I really think I'm going to have to do this." Meaning invade Iraq. Powell, despite his reservations about a war, agrees to support the president's decision. And then Woodward says that on March 19, the president issues the order to go to war.

You'll hear directly from Bob Woodward tonight. You'll have a chance to ask your own questions. He is scheduled to appear on "LARRY KING LIVE," that's 9:00 p.m. Eastern, 6:00 Pacific right here on CNN.

And right pack to Oklahoma City. Here is the 168 seconds of silence.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: Will you join me in your tradition as we pray?

KAGAN: We've been listening in to the 168 seconds of silence, said as a salute, as a memorial to the 168 people who died nine years ago today at Oklahoma City as a result of that bombing. Later at the service, later in the hour, they will be reading each individual's names, 168 names there at Oklahoma City. More on that.

Right now, more on the fight in Iraq. The American death toll has passed yet another milestone there. More than 700 U.S. military personnel have been killed since last March. That includes 12 Americans who died over the weekend and pushes the April death toll to 100. That makes this the deadliest month for U.S. forces since the initial invasion of Iraq more than a year ago.

Spain's recently elected Prime Minister Jose Luis Rodriquez Zapatero says he will withdraw his 1400 troops in the shortest time possible. Let's get the latest now from Baghdad.

Our Jim Clancy joining us from the Iraqi capital -- Jim.

JIM CLANCY, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, good evening from Baghdad. Daryn, you know, there has been cool weather that's moved here into central Iraq, and at the same time, the U.S.-led coalition taking some dramatic steps to turn down the temperature in the troubled town of Fallujah, the scene of some very heavy fighting over the last two weeks or so. Fighting that has caused an estimated 1000 Iraqi lives, many of them civilians. Many Marines have been killed or wounded as well in that fighting that started after four U.S. contractors were killed.

Some dramatic moves announced this day that include the U.S. making a commitment not to go on the offensive. Opening up routes for ambulances in the city. Saying it wants to mount joint patrols with Iraqi police to restore order.

But all of the moves by the U.S.-led coalition really are hinging now on what the community, the religious and the tribal leaders there in Fallujah can deliver back. The coalition wants to see a handover of heavy weaponry; arms like surface-to-air missiles, rockets, all of the ammunition associated with that, machine-guns, all of that. See it turned in. Will they be able to deliver? That's the big question. No one has ever really seen a negotiator on their side during all of these days of talks that has been able to speak for the insurgents there. But a lot of people are going to look at this as a way to really turn down the temperature, as I said, in Fallujah.

At the same time, the coalition trying to analyze what will be the impact now of Prime Minister Zapatero of Spain's announcement he's going to be withdrawing his 12 to 1400 troops sooner rather later from Iraq, perhaps in the coming two weeks. The Polish commander in the south central region saying only the U.S. would be able to fill the gap. At the same time, we're hearing from the U.S. administrator, Paul Bremer, he doesn't think that Iraqi security forces or police are in any shape right now to assume full security control after the June 30 handover -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Jim Clancy with the latest from Baghdad.

More now on Spain's decision to withdraw from Iraq. It says it does not end its commitment in the region. Spanish leaders say that they will work with the United Nations and European Union to rebuild Iraq. Spain also says its willing to double its troop strength in Afghanistan that is another front on the war on terror.

And now, the latest on Thomas Hamill. He is the American civilian contractor who was last seen with his abductors. Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson says that he will contact religious leaders in Iraq to seek Hamill's release. Jackson says he's also talked to Hamill's wife and shared prayers. Kelly Hamill appeared earlier today on CNN's "AMERICAN MORNING."

(BEGIN VIDEO CLIP)

KELLY HAMILL, WIFE OF THOMAS HAMILL: I'm just real hopeful that he can. I'm not quite sure, but you know, I have the faith and we're going to trust in, you know, in Mr. Reverend Jackson and see what, you know, if it's going to help.

(END VIDEO CLIP)

KAGAN: Hamill was taken hostage after the ambush of his convoy. That was 10 days ago just outside of Baghdad.

At least one U.S. soldier was also seized in that attack. He is Private Keith Matthew Maupin, a 20-year-old Army Reservist who videotaped as he was held at gunpoint.

Our Chris Lawrence is in his hometown of Batavia, Ohio -- Chris.

CHRIS LAWRENCE, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Well, Daryn, it's been an incredibly tough morning for the family who are dealing with this privately at their home right down the street. We talked with one of the Army officers who has been inside the home with him. He says they're literally jumping every time the phone rings, wondering if that is word from Iraq.

But many people here are very encouraged by some things they've seen and heard in that videotape released on Friday. Specifically the fact that Matt Maupin did not appear to be roughed up. That even though his captors were armed, they did not directly threaten him and they offered to possibly negotiate his release in some sort of trade for other prisoners being held by the coalition.

You know, if anybody can understand what he's going through right now, it is former POW Jessica Lynch. She actually called Matt Maupin's mother last night, offered a lot of encouragement, told her to stay very hopeful to his safety. And Jessica Lynch's mother also called her mother-to-mother, they talked for about 10 minutes with her telling Mrs. Lyn -- Mrs. Maupin that what to expect when, not if, her son Matt comes home.

But anywhere that this family goes around town, they are going to see an incredible amount of support. There has been a campaign to tie yellow ribbons on just about anything standing in the area. So wherever the family is going to go, they're going to see how much support they have, that support coming from not only here in town but all over the country. Jesse Jackson also offering his help. Although we have learned this morning that he has to go through the Army, and he has not yet been in direct contact with the family -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Chris Lawrence in Batavia, Ohio, thank you. And welcome to our CNN family! Good to have you on board.

LAWRENCE: Thank you.

KAGAN: It has been nine years since the Oklahoma City bombing. We go back to that story now. Victims and families remembering their loved ones, as a key witness takes the stand in the state trial of Terry Nichols.

Also, more than 700 troops killed in Iraq. We are live from the Pentagon on the state of U.S. troops there.

You've seen a lot about head-on crashes. What if you're broadsided from the side by a bigger vehicle? The Insurance Institute says the impact could be fatal. The effort to make your car safer, the results on CNN LIVE TODAY.

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KAGAN: Well, there we go. A live picture from Oklahoma City. Mourners observing just a few minutes ago, 168 seconds of silence honoring those killed in the Oklahoma City bombing. This is a live picture that we're taking from Oklahoma City. Today marks the ninth anniversary of that blast. A memorial in the city will open its field of empty chairs for those attending the ceremony. Later this hour we expect the reading of 168 names, the victims nine years ago today.

As the city remembers the tragedy, a case against one of the conspirators continues. Prosecutors in the case against Terry Nichols are set to put their star witness on the stand.

And for more on that, let's bring in our Susan Candiotti in McAllister, Oklahoma -- Susan. SUSAN CANDIOTTI, CNN CORRESPONDENT: Hello, Daryn. This is not only the ninth anniversary but also the 11 anniversary of that tragic event at Waco. You will remember that is what led Timothy McVeigh in his own words to carry out his attack on Oklahoma City. Just a few minutes ago on this very day at this very moment, nine years ago, that is when he used a fertilizer and fuel oil bomb to blow up the Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 people.

And here in McAllister, the state trial against Terry Nichols, the state is seeking the death penalty against him, goes on. It is week five. He arrived in the courtroom just a little while ago, after having been brought to the courthouse as he usually is under heavy security. Again, the main witness taking the stand this day is a continuation of someone who was on the stand on Friday. It is the FBI agent who interviewed Terry Nichols at length not long after the bombing, and he'll probably be on the stand most of the day.

As you will recall, Terry Nichols is being tried on 161 murder counts. Those are all of the victims who were not federal agents who were killed in the attack. And this day, many of the victims' relatives, who are here in the courtroom normally, would be attending the memorial in Oklahoma City. But instead, it was their turn through a lottery system to attend this trial 130 miles away. They will be staring Terry Nichols down to watch his every move. They, many of them, would like him to be put to death, if indeed, he is found guilty on state murder charges. You'll recall he is already serving a federal life sentence on other bomb charges.

Now, at noontime today, many of the family members, who are here, will be attending a private memorial service at a nearby church that has been providing refuge for these relatives attending the trial. During that service, the names of all 168 victims will be read. And then for many of these relatives who are attending the trial, it will be back to the courtroom for another long day of hearing testimony -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Susan, question about this trial. Even among some of the victims' families isn't the holding of this trial somewhat controversial? Some people said this was not the best allocation of state funds.

CANDIOTTI: Yes, for some relatives and for some other Oklahomans. In fact, a majority of them, they felt that holding this trial was redundant. That after all Terry Nichols had already been trial on federal murder charges and has got a life sentence against him. And so they thought it was a waste of time and money. But the majority of the victims' relatives think it is a good idea. And they said that they, too, deserve to have justice served for their victims who technically, Terry Nichols, Timothy McVeigh never had to face charges for their deaths. They were only charged for the murder of the eight federal agents -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Susan Candiotti in McAllister, Oklahoma, thank you.

Allegations about the plan for war in Iraq, reaction from the White House on Bob Woodward's new book about the president's plan of attack.

And making your move without losing your mind! Gerri Willis has some tips to keep you sane on moving day.

GERRI WILLIS, CNNFN PERSONAL FINANCE EDITOR: Hey, Daryn. Good to see you. Now, we made our big move into the Time Warner Center and we've got some great advice for you if you're planning a big move. Stay with us on CNN LIVE TODAY.

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KAGAN: Other business news. It is almost the end of April. Are you gearing up for one of those first of the month -- first of the month moves? If so, we have some tips on how to get your stuff out of your old home and into your new one, all in one piece.

And this is really ringing true for Gerri Willis because aren't you guys the first of the people to move into our new Time Warner Center.

WILLIS: That's right, Daryn. We're the guinea pigs.

KAGAN: The homesteaders.

WILLIS: CNN Financial News are having us do it first. And it's going great, I got to tell you.

KAGAN: Great. But there is good ways to move not just office, but your home as well. and that's what you have tips on today?

WILLIS: That's right. My first tip here, be ahead of the game and plan early. You know, everybody typically moves in the spring and the summer. You need to set up your plans four to six weeks ahead of time, that is if you want to get the mover you want and the delivery dates and times that you really need.

I just wanted to show some pictures here, too, of our own move and how we packed up. You know, how we packed up...

KAGAN: Oh, Myron Kandel!

WILLIS: Oh, you recognize him? Yes, our financial editor here. And we also have pictures here of our new digs as well, Daryn, you'll get to see. It's beautiful over here! Let me tell you.

KAGAN: Wait. We have to get to the new stuff. I think we're looking at the old stuff getting packed up.

WILLIS: OK. All right.

KAGAN: Meanwhile, did Myron really new all that stuff to the new place or did he clean out?

WILLIS: Well, truth be told, I think he packed up 14 boxes of books that went to a local library. And he's moving half now and half later. It was a big job. KAGAN: Yes, letting go of things. Now, we're looking at some of the new digs?

WILLIS: Great.

KAGAN: And eventually, we should tell folks CNN-fn is over there and eventually all of CNN, all of the big shows, all the fancy New York people moving there to Columbus Circle?

WILLIS: Yes, I'm telling you, Daryn, it's really pretty up here. And we're just testing out all of the new facilities. And as a matter of fact, some things are working and some aren't, but we're doing really well this morning. Let's get to the next tip, though.

KAGAN: We'll keep our fingers crossed. OK. You're talking about getting the moving company you want. How do you know which moving company that you want?

WILLIS: Well, you really got to shop around, Daryn. Here is the thing. A lot of people don't realize that the moving industry is one of those industries packed with scam artists. So you really have to shop carefully particularly be careful online. But one resource I want to point people to, if you're getting ready to move, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, it's a mouthful. But these people maintain a list on their website of people who are on the up and up, movers that are registered with them go to fmcsa.dot.gov for information. And of course, as always, call your better business bureau because they're going to have lots of ideas, too.

KAGAN: And then as you shop around, you should get some estimates from the different companies?

WILLIS: Yes. You want to get at least three movers to bid on your business. Get written estimates always, because it's the scam artists say, oh well, I can come underneath those bids that you've got right now. And I'm going to low ball you. And then they end up charging you an arm and a leg. So be sure to do that.

And make sure that you get a binding estimate, too. That's always a great idea. You know, if you've got stairs or something in your apartment or your house, you're going to find that you're going to be paying more. And if they have to pack a lot at the last minute, they didn't expect, that will add to your cost, too.

KAGAN: And what about making sure that you're protected in case something is broken?

WILLIS: Here is the number that shocked me. One in five moves involve some kind of claim for damage, Daryn. I mean that's a pretty high percentage. If I was moving, I'd be worrying about it. You want to make sure you got the right insurance to cover that in case you do have a problem. Look for something called Full Value Option. That's what you want -- the insurance you want to get from the mover, because that's what's going to cover the entire value of your goods if they're damaged.

KAGAN: And then what about on the big moving day?

WILLIS: Well, be on hand. That's the biggest tip. Because if you're not there, you can't ensure that things are going right. and if you are on hand, you can take inventory of the boxes as they leave and that's critical to do. Make sure you have the bill of lading, that's the contract between you and the mover, with you on hand at all times. And you know, just, you know, be on hand so that they know that you're watching and you're taking notice of what's going on -- Daryn.

KAGAN: Very good, Gerri Willis. Well, happy new office space in your new office building.

WILLIS: Thank you.

KAGAN: Did you get a good office?

WILLIS: Yes. We've got great offices. It's you know, like knock wood. I think things are going pretty well here.

KAGAN: OK. All right. Hopefully it will keep up that way. Gerri Willis, thanks from New York.

WILLIS: Thank you.

KAGAN: Coming up on CNN LIVE TODAY, another Hamas leader is killed. Now many wait anxiously for a possible reprisal.

We're live from the White House with reaction to a Watergate reporter's latest accusation that a war with Iraq was part of the president's early plan.

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