BAGHDAD (RPRN) 8/19/2009—Iraqi police say six massive explosions near high-profile targets across Baghdad have killed at least 50 people and wounded about 300. One blast Wednesday tore through the neighborhood near the heavily fortified Green Zone, covering it in debris and shattered glass. The blast went off near Iraq’s Foreign Ministry and shattered windows on Iraq’s parliament building.
Officials say mortars also struck inside the Green Zone, which is home to many foreign embassies and government offices.
Police said another mortar attack targeted Baghdad’s central governorate building, while a vehicle exploded next to Iraq’s Finance Ministry in northern Baghdad.
Another blast occurred in the Salhiya district of central Baghdad, where army bases are located.
Violence in Iraq has dropped sharply during the past year, but a recent series of deadly attacks in major cities points to a continued threat.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.
Photo credit: Satellite image of Baghdad’s International Airport and Green Zone.