World Report: November 17, 2006 Vol. 12 Iss. 10
- This Issue:
- Table of Contents
- Cover Story
- Cover Story - Spanish Version
- Mini-Lesson
- Comprehension Quiz
- Teacher's Guide and Worksheets
A Guilty Verdict
Three and a half years after a U.S.-led invasion forced Iraq's dictator, Saddam Hussein, out of power, he was found guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced to death. An Iraqi court made the announcement last week. The verdict closes a chapter of Iraq's history as the country tries to begin a new era.
Hussein ruled Iraq from 1979 to 2003. He is believed to be responsible for as many as 30,000 deaths. In this trial, he and seven other former Iraqi leaders were accused of killing nearly 150 Shiite Muslims in 1982. Hussein and two of his codefendants were sentenced to death by hanging. Four others received lesser sentences, and one was found not guilty. Hussein is appealing the decision. A judge is expected to rule on the appeal by mid-January.
In Baghdad, Iraq's capital, Shiite Muslims celebrated the verdict. In Tikrit, Hussein's hometown, Sunni Muslims demonstrated in angry response.
Hussein first reacted angrily to the verdict. But two days later, he gave an uncharacteristic message of peace. "I call on all Iraqis--Arabs and Kurds--to forgive, reconcile and shake hands," he said. Hussein remains on trial for other crimes.
