The lead prosecutor in Saddam Hussein’s genocide trial demanded on Wednesday that the chief judge resign for being too soft on the former Iraqi leader, who has threatened to “crush the heads” of his accusers.

“The defendants have gone too far with unacceptable expressions and words. The defendants have uttered clear threats. The chief prosecutor’s office requests the judge step down from this case,” Munqith al-Faroon said, adding the court had become a “political forum” for Saddam and six co-accused.