US forces on Friday launched missiles at specific targets in Baghdad in a second round of bombardment on the Iraqi capital since Thursday morning.

Meanwhile, it is understood that US officials believe Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and his two sons were present in a building targetted by missiles in the pre-dawn attack on Thursday. However, the US is not aware if the missiles hit the intended target.

On Thursday night, the initial bombardment was followed by US ground troops crossing the border into Iraq.

The targets included a presidential palace, government buildings and Special Republican Guard strongholds.

After the initial round of attacks, all was quiet in Baghdad till today morning's attacks.

Explosions were also reported near the northern city of Mosul.

Armed activists of the ruling Baath Party are believed to have taken up positions in and around Baghdad to defend the capital against US troops even as several residents fled to the safer confines of the countryside to escape the attacks.