"We believe we have Tareq Aziz in our possession," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

There were no immediate details on how Aziz was taken by US forces.

ABC television said Aziz, the longtime international spokesman for Saddam, had given himself up.

Aziz was number 43 on the list of 55 most wanted members of the Saddam regime issued by the United States. He was the most senior Christian member of the Iraqi administration.

SPACE.WIRE