Saddam Hussein's execution capped 2006

New Delhi, Dec 30 (UNI) The early morning execution of deposed Iraqi President Saddam Hussein capped 2006, during which his embattled country continued to bleed while natural calamities and manmade destructions resulted in the death of thousands of people in other parts of the world during the year.

Earthquakes in Indonesia took a toll of more than 4000 people while torrential rains eliminated more than 400 people in Philippines.About 400 people perished in stampedes at Mina in Saudi Arabia. An Egyptian ship with 1400 people on board sank in the Red Sea. With new problems, Somalia continued to remain prominent on the death chart.

The death toll in Iraq is not accurately accounted, though the number goes into thousands. A U N report estimated that October had the highest monthly toll of civilians at more than 3700.

Saddam Hussein was hanged for crimes against humanity at dawn today, nearly four years after he was toppled by a US invasion.

Kuwait Emir Sheikh Jaber al-Ahmad al-Sabah, X X X here pick up from fourth para of DI-7 DIARY INTERNATIONAL.

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