Saddam Hussein governed Iraq with a firm hand for over two decades, maintaining control through fear and harsh measures, while swiftly quashing any opposition. However, in 2006, his reign crumbled after a US-led invasion, leading to his execution on December 30, 2006. Convicted of crimes against humanity for the 1982 Dujail massacre where 148 Shi’ite men and boys were brutally killed, he was sentenced to death by hanging after a controversial trial by the Iraqi Special Tribunal.

Despite his plea for a firing squad execution, citing military tradition, Hussein’s request was denied. Prior to his demise at Camp Justice in Baghdad, he partook in a final meal of chicken and rice with hot water and honey, carrying a Qur’an as he entered the execution chamber on the morning of Eid al-Adha.

Witnesses inside described a tense atmosphere during the execution, with conflicting reactions from officials and onlookers. Despite facing taunts, Hussein remained composed, denying any fear or remorse, stating he spent his life combating aggression. As the noose tightened, he recited the Islamic declaration of faith, proclaiming, “The Muslim Ummah will be victorious,” before his final moments.

Amid international controversy over the execution’s dignity, a clandestine mobile phone recording from the chamber surfaced online, revealing the full hanging and Hussein’s defiant last words. Following his death, his body was flown to his birthplace near Tikrit, where he was buried in front of his sons.