Statement from Pentagon Spokesman Lawrence Di Rita on Reports that Secretary Rumsfeld met with Hussein
May 04, 2005

The Al Quds news report out of London that Secretary Rumsfeld recently met with Saddam Hussein is not only false but the allegation that he negotiated with Saddam is absolutely ludicrous. One can only view this as an attempt to undermine the integrity of the Iraqi government and its new judicial system.

During Secretary Rumsfelds latest trip to Iraq, he did meet with leaders of the recently elected Iraqi Transitional Government who are forward-looking and focused on the future a future of liberty, peace and prosperity for all Iraqis.

Hussein remains in the custody of the Iraqi government and his fate will be determined by the Iraqi people.