In pictures: Iraqis react to handover

Ahmed Sa'aed, 30
Auto mechanic

"I was surprised the transfer of sovereignty happened early. I hope for the safety and stability of this country. Now the authority is in the hand of the Iraqis, we will destroy all the cells of terrorism.

"When I woke this morning I saw the Americans no longer control me and that makes me feel better.

"Saddam should be kept alive. We don't want him to be comfortable. If he is dead, he will not feel the anger of the Iraqi people."