Waco (Texas): White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card told an online audience that he
believes Saddam Hussein has been killed.
Card made the statement as he launched a new interactive feature on the White House
Website on April 16 in which Internet users around the world had the chance to
question one of President Bush's most-powerful aides on any topic they liked.
Card took queries on such topics as the United States' commitment to civilians hurt
during the hostilities in Iraq, tensions with North Korea, wartime protests, and the
role of nations that didn't support the US led war in Iraq's post-war future.
One e-mail asked if there was any new information on the deposed Iraqi leader's
location and if the war in Iraq could be deemed successful without Saddam Hussein's
death or capture.
"I think he is dead. The good news is that his regime is no longer a threat to the
people of Iraq nor to the US or our allies," replied Card, who ignored the second
half of the question.
Saddam's whereabouts are unknown. Other US officials have said they don't know if he
is dead or alive.
War commander Gen Tommy Franks, Card said, "is working with Iraqi leaders to
encourage people who have come across stolen goods to return them so the treasures
of Iraq will be there for generations to come".
