The United Nations has been given one day to end the diplomatic wrangling over military action in Iraq.

Tony Blair, George W Bush and Jose Maria Aznar ended their emergency summit in the Azores with an ultimatum to doubters at the UN and to Iraq.

"We are in the final stages because after 12 years of failing to disarm him now is the time to decide. We cannot have a situation where we go back to endless discussion," Blair told journalists.

The three men made clear that France and other countries would be given a last opportunity to ditch their opposition to war if Saddam refused to comply.

"Tomorrow is a moment of truth for the world," said George W Bush.

"Many nations have voiced their commitment to peace and security and now they must demonstrate that commitment by supporting the immediate and unconditional disarmament of Saddam Hussein."

There was a final warning specifically for France.

"We have an expression in Texas that says, 'Show your cards'. France has shown its card. Now we have to see tomorrow what that card meant," said Bush.

President Chirac sought to counter criticism from the US and used an interview with CBS to call for inspectors to be given another 30 days to complete their work.