Brooks said US commanders on the ground had been provided with a range of identification materials, including playing cards with the photographs and descriptions of those sought.

The top card in a stack he held up for journalists to see showed Saddam Hussein's eldest son and heir apparent Qussay, as the ace of clubs. Qussay, 36, is the number two in the Baath party, and controls most of Iraq's military, security and intelligence.

Brooks said posters and handbills were also being printed to inform Iraqis which officials were wanted for questioning.

"We know there are some that are alive and (some who are) dead," Brooks said, adding that he hoped Iraqis would help coalition forces locate and/or detain those on the list.

"The key list has 55 individuals who may be pursued, killed, or captured," the general said.

"The list does not exclude leaders who may have already been killed or captured."

SPACE.WIRE