Execution of Saddam Hussein

Hussein on trial in 2004

The execution of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein took place on 30 December 2006. Hussein was sentenced to death by hanging, after being found guilty of crimes against humanity by the Iraqi Special Tribunal. These charges were mainly because of Hussein's role for the Dujail massacre—the killing of 148 Iraqi Shi'ites in the town of Dujail—in 1982.[1]

Before being executed, Saddam began to recite the Shahada twice and shouted his hate for America.[2] When he was at the end of his second recitation when he was about to say "Muhammad", the trapdoor opened, causing Hussein's death.[3]

The execution was recorded by the Iraqi government. It showed him being taken to the execution location and being put the noose around his neck. Another cellphone video caused controversy after it showed people cheering after his execution.[4] In the video, the sound of Hussein's neck breaking can be heard.[5]

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