The Iraqi journalist who threw his shoes at President Bush has been sentenced to three years in prison. A reporter for Al-Baghdadiya Television, Muntadhar al-Zaidi drew worldwide attention when he hurled his shoes at Bush during a news conference in December. Zaidi was convicted of assaulting a foreign leader. His attorney and family have claimed prison guards have abused Zaidi since his jailing. Earlier today, Zaidi’s brother, Uday al-Zaidi, rejected the verdict.

Uday al-Zaidi: “They told us of the verdict when we entered the court. Unfortunately, the court is politicized.”

Reporter: “Will you appeal the verdict?”

Uday al-Zaidi: “We have already appealed the verdict, but the verdict was taken before session. Iraqi justice is not independent, and it is not honest, and I scorn those who say Iraqi justice is independent. Iraqi justice is not independent, and it is politicized. This court was set up according to Paul Bremer decisions, and the verdict of the court was issued according to Bush decisions.”