Global reaction to Saddam´s verdict

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-07-2006 09:41

Special Report:   Iraq in Transition

Leaders from around the world have been reacting to Sunday's decision by an Iraqi Tribunal to sentence former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein to death by hanging. Italy, France and Cuba are among those countries against the sentence. They've called on Iraq NOT to execute Saddam. Meanwhile, the US insists the death penalty is fair, and says the verdict was a decision made by Iraqis. Meanwhile, in Iraq itself Shiites and Kurds have been gathering to celebrate the sentencing. But many supporters of Saddam say the decision is unfair.

Italy: Prodi against Saddam’s execution

Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi has made it clear that Italy is against Saddam Hussein's death sentence. He expressed his view after meeting with British Prime Minister Tony Blair on Monday. Prodi also urged Iraq to change the death penalty to another form of punishment. Earlier, Prime Minister Tony Blair said Britain opposed the death penalty. But he stopped short of saying directly whether he thought Saddam should be executed saying it was a matter for Iraqis to decide.