US, Iraq sign agreement to settle claims of Americans abused by Saddam Hussein’s regime

US, Iraq sign deal to settle Saddam-era claims

BAGHDAD — The American Embassy spokesman in Iraq says the United States and Iraq have signed an agreement to settle claims of Americans who say they were abused by Saddam Hussein’s regime.

David Ranz gave no details Friday of the agreement, including who the specific claimants are or the dollar amount involved.

A number of Americans have sued Iraq for incidents that happened during Saddam’s more than 20 years in power, alleging abuse and mistreatment.

The Americans kept up their legal fight after Saddam was overthrown and a new government came to power.

Ranz said Iraq still has to go through several steps for the agreement to be finalized. If completed, it would represent a significant step forward for Iraq and an end to years of legal battles.