Today, December 22nd, several explosions, over 14 according to some sources, killed at least 63 people in Iraqi capital, Baghdad. According to the Ministry of Interior, at least 194 people were injured during the attacks which lasted around two hours. The action, apparently coordinated, targeted the central districts of Allawi, Bab Al-Muatham and Karrada as well as several other areas of the city. At the time being, the targeted zones have been cordoned-off by police.
This terror attack is the first bombing to hit the capital city since the withdrawal of the U.S. army from the country and is the most brutal over the past months. The action might have been conducted by the Al Qaeda’s Sunni insurgents as the explosions occurred mostly in Shiite neighbourhoods, although some Sunni areas were also targeted.
Terrorist attacks are frequent throughout Iraq. Be aware that most western Embassies advise their citizens against all travel to Iraq, including in Baghdad as conditions remain extremely dangerous throughout the city. Civilians are often targeted by terrorist attacks; the risk of kidnapping, especially for Westerners, is very high. Violence usually increases before, during or after major religious events. As the country is facing a social unrest, travellers currently in Iraq should avoid all demonstrations and gatherings as they can turn violent at a short notice.
