Fresh controversy over new Iraq executions

There is controversy surrounding the execution by hanging today of two former close aides of Saddam Hussein. A video of the deaths shows that Saddam’s half brother was decapitated by the noose. Experts say this shows the execution was not properly carried out, with the distance of the fall from the gallows miscalculated. They say it is likely to anger Sunni Muslim supporters of Saddam.

The deaths appear to have taken place on the same gallows where Saddam was hanged two weeks ago. However, there was no repeat of sectarian taunting that occurred at Saddam’s execution, as revealed on a mobile telephone video. Officials say the film of the latest executions was shown to reporters, but will not be made public.

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