The former Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein has pleaded not guilty to charges concerning a 1980s massacre.
His trial on charges of crimes against humanity opened this morning in Baghdad, and was later adjourned until 28 November.
The first case against him and seven others concerns the death of more than 140 Shi'ite Muslim men in the early 1980s.
The killings are alleged to have taken place following an assassination attempt on Saddam Hussein in the town of Dujail north of Baghdad on 8 July 1982.
The former president entered the courtroom in a dark suit and open-necked shirt, carrying a copy of the Koran.
At the start of proceedings the Chief Justice, Rizgar Mohammed Amin, repeatedly asked him to state his name and profession.
Each time Saddam Hussein denounced the court and the occupation of Iraq, claiming he is still President.
However, he later responded to the charges, saying: 'I am innocent.'
The 68-year-old and his seven associates face a five-judge panel from Iraq's Special Tribunal which was established by the US authorities to try the leaders of the overthrown regime.
The judges could sentence them to death if convicted.
Despite today's adjournment, Saddam Hussein's former head of protocol, Haitham Rashid Wihaib, who defected in the early 1990s, said it was a momentous occasion.
Earlier, two mortars landed in the heavily fortified Green Zone in Baghdad where the trial opened.
Security officials said there were no casualties and no damage was caused.
