Arab opinion divided on Mubarak verdict

Mubarak's life sentence - the hot topic across the Mid East.

The sentencing of Egypt's deposed leader for his role in the killings of protesters has -- it appears -- divided opinion across the Arab world.

Here in Jordan, this Egyptian national says Mubarak and his ministers should have been handed the death sentence for destroying the country.

But others praised the former leader.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) JORDANIAN NATIONAL, HASSAN MAANAI,, SAYING:

"I demand the release of Hosni Mubarak, because he is more honourable than the other Arab leaders. He avoided spilling blood, unlike the rest of the Arab leaders who continue committing massacres while staying on their thrones."

In Lebanon, there were also mixed feelings.

This man welcomed the verdict but said Mubarak and his sons should return the money they embezzled to the Egyptian people.

Others thought the trial was unfair.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) LEBANESE CITIZEN, MOHAMMED , SAYING:

"It was an unfair trial. If they sentenced him to five or ten years in prison it'd be okay, but a life sentence is unfair. Look at the situation in Egypt now."

In Iraq's capital Baghdad, some simply felt the Egyptian people should have the right to determine Mubarak's fate.

(SOUNDBITE) (Arabic) IRAQI CITIZEN, SAMEER, SAYING:

"As for Hosni Mubarak's trial, the people (Egyptians) are those who should decide his destiny. We are away from the scene, so we can't give our opinion. The people knew about the good and bad in their country."

Mubarak will reportedly be transferred to prison from hospital to begin his sentence.

Sunita Rappai, Reuters