This seems a rather poor start to Iraq's venture into Democracy. The Judge must take control of the proceedings in this courtroom, but, so far, that is not being done with the defendants calling the shots. Shouting matches between defendants and witnesses? Telling the judge to "go to hell?" No. No. Such behavior should land any defendant in a separate room where he can watch, but not disrupt, the proceedings via CCTV.

If Hussain insists on continuing his contumacious behavior, his threat to not return to the courtroom should be accepted. He can be afforded the ability to see-but-not-be-seen, especially if he refuses to control himself and his political outbursts. He has made his position with regard to the Court, the judges, and everything else relevant well known and "on the record." He has therefore preserved his rights to appeal the trial's result if he chooses, and there should be no tolerance for further antics. If he wishes to make further points in a civil and respectful manner that are related to the evidence as it is presented, that is one thing; making this a show-trial is not his option and the Court must take control and maintain the dignity and propriety of the process.

Pulling this mutt out of that hole only to provide him with a worldwide media stage to prance on will empower his supporters beyond measure.

Richard,

I have been an avid fan of NBC news for as long as I can remember. I must say that I throughly look forward to your reports from Baghdad. Essentially - you are the man. Stay safe. Keep up the excellent work.

I hope Mr. Engel can answer this. Now that the US has killed many civilians, used chemicals in weapons during the bombing, paid papers to spin information, has secret prisons, doctored documents and with Mr. Cheney wanting torture for any prisoners. What crimes are we doing that are the same that Saddam is charged with. Its seems we're doing some of the same crimes.