Hussein says trial was fully justified

BAGHDAD – Saddam Hussein said in a defiant courtroom confession yesterday that he ordered the trial of 148 Shiites who were later executed, and arranged for the flattening of their palm groves and farms. He said he had the right to do so because they were suspected of trying to kill him. “Where is the crime? Where is the crime?” Saddam asked. “If trying a suspect accused of shooting at a head of state – no matter what his name is – is considered a crime, then you have the head of state in your hands. Try him.”