What’s Next: Aug. 7, 2006

Saddam’s Trial

Will the verdict mean his death?

The Iraqi ex-dictator’s trial for the 1982 killings of 148 Shi’ites adjourned last week. If found guilty, Saddam could face death. While awaiting a verdict–due in October–he will go on trial Aug. 21 for alleged genocide of Kurds.

Global-Trade Failure

WTO negotiations stall

Old MacDonald has a protector: talks to liberalize world trade ended after the U.S. refused to cut farm subsidies and the E.U. declined to lower agricultural tariffs. President Bush vowed to revive dialogue but gave no timetable.

Drilling in the Gulf

Lawmakers may go far for oil

The Senate expects to vote this week to allow new drilling in the Gulf of Mexico–but only well away from Florida’s coast. The House, which has already passed a similar bill, wants no such exclusions. A quick compromise is unlikely.

MTV’s 25th Birthday

The network celebrates quietly

The video channel that killed the radio star turns 25 this week with a low-key party. One reason: its core audience, 12-to-24-year-olds, wasn’t even alive in ’81. Sister station VH1 Classic will re-air MTV’s first day of programming.

Charles in Charge

Barkley may run to rule Alabama

Will it be a Democratic slam-dunk? NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley has long talked of entering politics as a Republican. Last week he said he plans a run for Governor of Alabama in 2010–as a Dem.