Across Asia: Iraq

Aziz trial resumes

An Iraqi court yesterday resumed hearing the case against Tariq Aziz, one of Saddam Hussein's best-known lieutenants, and seven other former regime officials who face the possible death penalty in the 1992 execution of dozens of merchants.

Aziz, 72, the former deputy prime minister, and ailing co-defendant "Chemical Ali" Hassan al-Majid both leaned on canes as they walked into the courtroom.

Aziz denied the allegations and accused the Shiite-led government of seeking revenge against him because of his membership in the former regime.

(China Daily 05/21/2008 page23)