Iraq hangs 42 convicted on terrorism charges

BAGHDAD - The Associated Press

Iraq's Justice Ministry says authorities have executed 42 people, including a woman, over the past two days. They were all convicted on terrorism-related charges.

Thursday's announcement shows Baghdad's determination to carry out capital punishment despite international appeals to have it abolished.

The ministry spokesman, Haider al-Saadi, says all 42 were Iraqis convicted of "carrying out terrorist crimes, killing dozens of innocent people."

The statement didn't give more details.

The latest hangings bring the total number of executions in Iraq this year to 132.

In 2011, Iraq was ranked fourth among the world's top five executioners after China, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the U.S., according to the London-based group Amnesty International.

Human rights groups have questioned trial procedures in Iraqi courts.