The Trial of Saddam Hussein and The Fallout of The War

The Trial of Saddam Hussein

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The fallout in the Middle East from the regime change in Iraq

Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Aziz Stands Trial

The trial of Saddam's former Deputy Prime Minister, Tariq Aziz, and his seven co defendants resumed yesterday in Baghdad.

They are on trial for their alleged roles in the execution of 42 merchants in 1992.

Aziz appeared or himself, without legal representation, as his lawyers have not been granted visas.

Aziz told the court that the trial was based on personal revenge:

"Focusing on the membership of the Revolutionary Command Council means revenge. I know it is a personal revenge."

A guilty verdict carries the death penalty.

Monday, May 19, 2008

Aziz Due To Appear

Tariq Aziz, the former Iraqi deputy prime minister, is set to appear before the Iraqi High Tribunal tomorrow without the new legal team that he demanded three weeks ago.

Aziz faces charges linked to the execution of 42 Baghdad merchants in 1992.

He may now have to seek a new court date, or represent himself on Tuesday.

His son, Ziad Aziz, who is based in Amman has told the media that French lawyer Jacques Verges, four Italian lawyers and a French-Lebanese attorney will be unable to attend Tuesday's hearing in Baghdad because they have not received their visas.