Suicide bombings in Iraq kill more than 50 people

Multiple bombers attacked a restaurant and police checkpoint in the southern Iraqi city of Nasiriyah, killing more than 50 people.

The scene of a suicide bombing in Nasiriyah. Illustration photo: Eagle News.

Iraqi police said at least five terrorists attacked a restaurant and a highway checkpoint in the southern city of Nasiriyah today. More than 50 people were killed and at least 80 wounded in the series of bombings, Reuters reported.

One bomber detonated an explosive vest inside the restaurant, while four others opened fire on people nearby. Nasiriyah Health Minister Jasim al-Khalidi said the city hospital had received 50 bodies, including four Iranians. The death toll could rise as many victims were in critical condition.

Bombings are rare in southern Iraq, where most of the country's oil is produced. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but it comes as Iraqi forces are battling to clear several strongholds held by the Islamic State (IS) group.

Bombings are rare in Nasiriyah. Graphic: World Atlas.

According to VNE