BAGHDAD // Two suicide attackers targeted Iraqi police checkpoints in commercial areas in central Baghdad during rush hour Thursday, killing at least 14 people, officials said.
Both attacks were carried out by bombers on foot, wearing explosives-laden vests, two police officers said. One bomber struck in Baghdad’s Bab Al Sharji area, killing eight civilians and a police officer there. Twenty-one were wounded in that explosion.
The second bomber hit Al Wathba Square, killing five people, including two policemen, and wounding 12.
Two medical officials confirmed the casualty figures. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorised to talk to reporters.
No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks, which bore the hallmarks of ISIL.
Since the emergence of ISIL extremists, Baghdad has seen near-daily attacks, with roadside bombs, suicide blasts and assassinations targeting Iraqi forces and government officials, with significant casualties among the civilian population.
The violence has killed hundreds and displaced tens of thousands of Iraqis.
* Associated Press
