Shoe-Tosser Released, Says 'I Was Tortured'

Zaidi hailed as Goliath-battling David

(NEWSER) - The Iraqi journalist who hurled both his shoes at George Bush during a speech in Baghdad last year will be released early from prison next week to a hero's welcome, a free house and offers of money, a wife, and a gold-saddled horse, reports the Guardian. Muntadar al-Zaidi "is a David and Goliath figure," whose "shoes were his slingshot," said one Iraqi fan. "When the history books are written, they will look back on this episode with great acclaim." More»

Zaidi convicted of assaulting a foreign head of state

(NEWSER) - The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at George W. Bush during a Baghdad press conference has been sentenced to three years in prison, the Guardian reports. Muntadar al-Zaidi had pleaded not guilty to charges of assaulting a foreign head of state, saying his actions were "a natural response to the occupation." His family erupted in anger at the decision, delivered in a Green Zone court normally used for terrorism cases. More»

(NEWSER) - No wonder he came so close: The Iraqi journalist who chucked his shoes at George Bush practiced two years in advance and even videotaped taped himself doing so, USA Today reports. However, Muntadhar al-Zeidi said he didn't know he'd go through with it until he saw Bush "smiling icily" at the press conference. He said he's been tortured with beatings and electric shocks while awaiting trial, which has now been adjourned until next month. More»

Unrepentant journalist says chucking shoes at Bush was protest against US occupation

(NEWSER) - The trial of an Iraqi journalist who chucked his shoes at President Bush has been delayed until next month, reports the BBC. The court first needs to consult with the Iraqi government on whether Bush's visit to Iraq was formal or informal, according to the judge. Munthadar al-Zaidi is charged with assaulting a foreign leader and faces 15 years in jail if convicted. More»

Zaidi 'would do it again,' will sue Iraqi police for abuse, brother says

(NEWSER) - Muntadar al-Zaidi, now famous for throwing his shoes at George W. Bush during a press conference in Iraq, was tortured into writing a letter of apology to the American president, his brother told the Guardian today. Zaidi has allegedly suffered cigarette burns to his ears, is missing a tooth, and was doused with cold water while naked by Iraqi police. More»