Iraqi tribunal lays charges against Saddam

Its chief investigating judge told a news conference in Baghdad Saddam had been charged, with three others, with killings of Shia Muslims in the village of Dujail in 1982.

The case is seen as relatively minor compared to accusations of genocide and crimes against humanity that have also been levelled at the former president. But investigators say it may be easier to prove Saddam's personal culpability in the smaller case, leading to a swift conviction and possible death sentence.

The judge, Raed Jouhi, said court proceedings could begin within days, although diplomatic sources said he was probably referring to pre-trial motions rather than the trial itself.