US President George W Bush told anti-war campaigners they were lucky to be free to protest at his visit to Britain next week.
A series of demonstrations are planned to mark his state visit next week including a mass national rally.
The White House has insisted Mr Bush is "not phased" by the prospect.
And he had a message for those planning to turn out when he appeared on the BBC1 Breakfast with Frost programme.
"Freedom is a beautiful thing. Aren't you lucky to be in a country that encourages people to speak their mind?
"And I value going to a country where people are free to say anything they want to say. Secondly, I would say that I understand you don't like war, and neither do I.
"But I would hope you understand that I have learned the lessons of September the 11th, 2001, and that terrorists declared war on the United States of America and war on people that love freedom, and I intend to lead our nation - along with others, like our close friends in Great Britain - to win this war on terror.
"That war is my last choice, not my first choice, but I have obligation as the President to keep our country secure."
During the interview he also heaped praise on Tony Blair. He said: "I value his advice and I - every time I visit with him, whether it be on the phone or on video or in person ... he's got some interesting ideas about how to advance a positive agenda."
