Former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein was executed on December 30, 2006, following his conviction for crimes against humanity, specifically the 1982 killings in Dujail. Hussein ruled Iraq for nearly 25 years until his overthrow in 2003. His trial and subsequent execution by hanging were closely watched globally. The timing of the execution, coinciding with the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Adha, drew criticism for potentially exacerbating sectarian tensions.