All of the news outlets are now covering the verdict of the trial. I thought I’d type up a quick on the ground story from someone literally a short walk from where the trial has been going on, and the other court building where the verdict was just handed down.

Many Iraqis are pleased with this news. There has been lots of sporadic celebratory AK-47 fire into the sky by various Iraqis here in Baghdad for the last hour since the local news announced the verdict.

I just witnessed an impromptu parade of sorts. Local Iraqis normally working at the various Ministries and Government buildings in the IZ were driving down the streets, waving their shirts over their heads and honking their horns. The bleat of the horns alone side the shouting sounded like music in the distance, but as they drove closer, it was just the raw sound of celebration. AKs and pistol fire into the air accompanied the caravan as it proceeded down the street.

Baghdad is in lockdown today in anticipation of violence. Most of our business in the IZ has been cancelled as well, just in case. But even in the midst of that, the people are celebrating. This event, along with the future execution, is finally closing a door to Saddam’s reign over his people.

There may be violence later in the day, I’m sure if there is, it will dwarf the news I just shared. But just so everyone knows, regardless of what happens later in the day, there is great happiness among many Iraqis at this verdict, and they aren’t afraid to show it.