Saddam on hunger strike for five days

BAGHDAD - Saddam Hussein and three of his co-defendants have been on hunger strike for five days, the US military said today, confirming a statement from the former president's lawyer, but insisting he was in good health.

The four had refused meals since last weekend in protest at court procedures in their trial for crimes against humanity and over security for their defence lawyers, a third of whom was killed last month.

"They are in good health," a US spokesman said, adding that Saddam was taking liquids with nutrients.

- REUTERS