Explosion kills 2 Shi’ite pilgrims south of Baghdad

Baghdad: Iraqi officials say a roadside bomb has killed two Shi’ite pilgrims and wounded 10 others south of Baghdad.

Police and health officials say Monday`s blast targeted pilgrims walking to the holy Shi’ite city of Karbala to commemorate the end of 40 days of mourning following the anniversary of the death of Imam Hussein, a revered Shi’ite figure.

The attack took place in the Baghdad suburb of Awairij.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to brief media.

Bombings targeting members of Iraq`s Shi’ite Muslim majority have been on the rise during the past days. The attacks are believed to be the work of Sunni insurgents.

Bureau Report