Saddam to be hanged tonight?

A "senior Iraqi source" has told Reuters that Saddam Hussein may be hanged tonight.

There have been some reports that the execution could be delayed until after the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha, a week long holiday which begins Saturday. However, on Iraqi state TV, the PM of Iraq says there will be no delays. Iraqi law prohibits executions on holidays, though, meaning it MUST be carried out before Saturday at sundown, or be put off for another week.

CNN is reporting that a member of Hussein's defense team has told them that the former dictator will be executed "within hours." The attorney was told to make arrangements for the body to be transferred to Hussein's family in Jordan. The chief defense lawyer for Saddam also says the U.S. military has said to "pick up belongings." CNN is also reporting that U.S. officials have cancelled their meeting with Hussein.

There have been conflicting reports as to whether or not Saddam Hussein is still in U.S. custody, but the general consensus seems to be that Hussein has been turned over to Iraqi authorities, which would be the final step before execution.

Yesterday, Saddam bade farewell to two half brothers in his jail cell.