Iraq: Suicide bomber targets Shi'ite gathering in Baghdad, killing 34
| Publisher | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty |
| Publication Date | 15 October 2016 |
| Cite as | Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Iraq: Suicide bomber targets Shi'ite gathering in Baghdad, killing 34, 15 October 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/5975a102a.html [accessed 17 September 2023] |
| Disclaimer | This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. |
Last Updated: October 15, 2016
Iraqi Shi'a perform a reenactment of the Battle of Karbala in Baghdad as part of a parade in preparation for Ashura.
A suicide bombing claimed by the Islamic State extremist group in the middle of a Shi'ite Muslim gathering in Baghdad has killed at least 34 people in the deadliest attack in the Iraqi capital in more than three months.
At least 36 people were wounded in the attack on October 15.
Police said the explosion went off inside a tent filled with people taking part in Shi'ite Ashura rituals, mourning the killing of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein in the 7th century.
According to a witness, the bomber came into the funeral tent and blew himself up as lunch was being served.
The tent was set up in a crowded market in the city's northern al-Shaab district.
The attack comes as Iraqi forces prepare for an offensive in northern Iraq to recapture Mosul, the last IS-held city in the country.
Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP
Link to original story on RFE/RL website