For three weeks, Iraqi Information Minister Mohammed Saeed al-Sahhaf was the voice of Baghdad.
His commentary on behalf of Saddam Hussein's regime was a refreshing change from most official propagandists. His language was visceral, his barefaced lies astonishing.
Then, like other top-level figures, he failed to show up when all was clearly
lost. His whereabouts is unknown, although the Americans say he is "not a target".
Here are some of his memorable moments:
April 1 - As coalition forces bombard Baghdad from the air, al-Sahhaf quotes from a statement purportedly made by Saddam Hussein: "The aggression that the aggressors are carrying out against the stronghold of faith is an aggression on the religion, the wealth, the honour and the soul and an aggression on the land of Islam. Therefore, jihad is a duty in confronting them. Those who are martyred will be rewarded in heaven. Seize the opportunity, my brothers." April 2 - The first contact between US troops and forces defending Baghdad: "No matter how many Iraqi civilians they kill, this will make us even stronger and even more determined to repel the invasion."
April 3 - Resistance in Basra and Najaf is weakening: "They've not been able to control any Iraqi city. We're waging a war of attrition against this snake and we will be victorious."
April 4 - With coalition forces about 10km from Baghdad: "As Muslims, their fatwa is to resist the American mercenary forces - they are evil - and to consider them invaders who should be resisted ... We will welcome them with bullets and shoes." (Being hit by a shoe is considered a grave insult in the Arab world).
April 6 - US controls Baghdad airport: "Let them [bask] in their illusions."
April 7 - US soldiers sweep through Baghdad suburbs: "I reassure you Baghdad is safe. Their infidels are committing suicide by the hundreds on the gates of Baghdad. There is no presence of the American columns in the city of Baghdad, none at all. Do not believe those liars."
April 8 - US forces are in the centre of Baghdad and control of the city is imminent: "They are going to surrender or be burned in their tanks."
Herald Feature: Iraq war
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