Saddam Hussein and leading members of his government will be brought to justice following any regime change in Iraq, opposition leaders pledged yesterday.

US president George Bush, armed with congressional authority to oust Saddam Hussein, is reviewing post-war plans for Iraq that could include deploying American troops to stabilise the nation until a new government is formed.

President Bush’s call to deal with Iraq and its weapons of mass destruction was studied by Arabs - some said in vain - for signs war could be avoided.

Iraqi opposition leaders were today planning to take part in a video conference call with US Vice President Dick Cheney following their discussions in Washington about the need for a new era of freedom in Iraq.