Saddam Shame

A photograph of deposed Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein in his underwear has been appearing in newspapers around the world since first exposed in the London Sun.

Representatives of the U.S. military were barely able to contain their chagrin at the publishing of such unauthorized pictures. The Pentagon issued a statement which read, in brief:

"These photos were taken in clear violation of DoD [Department of Defense] directives and possibly Geneva Convention guidelines for the humane treatment of detained individuals."

The former Iraqi strongman, who was stripped of his dictatorship in July 2004, shortly after the U.S. "shock and awe" attack on Iraq, is shown in one photograph holding what appears to be an item of clothing. Speculation has arisen that Hussein was preparing to iron the item.

When pressed, the Pentagon refused to confirm or deny the availability of on-the-premises dry cleaning for war-time captives.

Muslim leaders expressed naked rage at what they felt was the mistreatment of Hussein.

Rumors that Fruit of the Loom has signed Hussein to a six figure endorsement deal are, as yet, unconfirmed.