In recent times the country is ruled by a Saddam Hussein-style dictator named Asim Muhunnad. Muhunnad is deposed by Black Adam and a group of former Justice Society of America members, and executed by Atom Smasher.[3] Adam then declares himself the new ruler of Kahndaq. Kahndaq is heavily damaged shortly thereafter by the Spectre, during the "Day of Vengeance" storyline.[4] After this attack, Black Adam joins Lex Luthor's Secret Society of Super Villains, as he feels this will serve to protect Kahndaq.[5]