In his response, Allawi told Annan he shared his preference for a political solution over military confrontation.
"But I did not find in your letter a new plan or a new strategy beyond this strong preference, which has already guided my thinking throughout," he wrote.
"Essentially, the violent groups have rejected the rule-of-law, without which there can be no democracy," Allawi said. "I believe that it is the government's duty now to act in order to safeguard lives, elections and democracy in Iraq from those choosing the path of violence and atrocities."
The prime minister said every effort would be made to safeguard civilians, and he said humanitarian relief and reconstruction packages have been prepared for Fallujah.
Sumaidaie, the Iraqi ambassador, said he was "very encouraged" that Annan is doing everything possible to raise the ceiling of 35 international staff in Iraq to help prepare for elections in January.
"The general direction is more, and as soon as possible, and that's going to happen, and we'll hear about it soon," he said.
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