The measures are part of a “national reconciliation” plan launched in June by the U.S.-backed government of Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki. It aims to convince wealthy Sunnis to end their support of armed groups that have carried on a sustained campaign of bombings, kidnappings, and executions against U.S. and Iraqi troops, government officials, and Shiite civilians.

Hussein was put on trial in October 2005 for the torture and murder of 148 Shiites from the city of Dujail. Most of them had been executed after being convicted by a Baathist-run court of attempting to assassinate Hussein. About 50 actually died during interrogation.

Barzan Ibrahim and Awad Hamed al-Bandar were also sentenced to death. Ibrahim is Hussein’s half-brother and was intelligence chief during the Dujail killings. Al-Bandar headed the court that issued the death sentences against Dujail residents.

Taha Yassin Ramadan, vice-president in Hussein’s regime, was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. Three others were sentenced up to 15 years in prison for torture and murder.

The sentences, which were applauded by the White House, now go to an appeals panel. The panel has unlimited time to review the case. If it upholds the sentences the executions are to be carried out within 30 days.
 
 
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