Saddam Hussein's hurried execution in the early hours of December 30 has taken the world by surprise.

Within hours of his hanging, an estimated 70 people died in explosions in Iraq. And experts have warned that sectarian violence may only increase in the troubled nation, as Shias rejoice and Sunnis mourn Hussein's death.

The international community has also been widely divided in its reactions, with some countries applauding the move and others condemning it.

What do you think? Was Saddam Hussein's execution right or wrong? Did he deserve to be hanged or would life imprisonment have been sufficient? Do you think Iraq and its people will pay dearly for this action? Or will they finally see the peace that has been eluding them for too long?

Tell us.