Saddam's Baath party threatens to hit U.S targets

AMMAN, Dec 27 (Reuters) Saddam Hussein's Baath party threatened today to retaliate if the ousted leader is executed, saying hanging him was a red line the United States should not cross.

''Our party warns again of the results of carrying out such a verdict, on the situation in Iraq and America in particular,'' read a statement by the party posted on the Internet.

''It is the most dangerous red line that the American administration should not cross.'' In the statement, which could not be independently verified, the party threatened to target American interests everywhere if Saddam was executed.

''The Baath and the resistance are determined to respond through all possible means and everywhere in a way that will injure America and its interests in case it commits such a crime,'' said the party.

It also warned Iran against interfering in Iraqi affairs ''or else our response will be in the heart of Iran and will get to its head.'' The party stressed that executing Saddam and his comrades would only strengthen the resistance and the Baath and make it impossible for them to negotiate with ''the occupation'' in the future.

''Our party assures that the execution will not weaken the armed resistance but will ignite its fire, widen its base and double the number of its members,'' read the statement.

''It will also place on the US administration the responsibility of the killing of more of its soldiers.'' Saddam is due to be hanged within 30 days. He was sentenced to death for crimes against humanity during his 24-year rule in November.

REUTERS SP RK1100