American combat forces might be exiting Iraq, but a wave of deadly violence around the country Wednesday served as a grim reminder that war is likely to be a daily reality for Iraqis for a long time to come. –KA

BBC:

At least 50 people have been killed in a series of apparently co-ordinated bomb attacks across Iraq.

The deadliest killed 19 people in the southern city of Kut. Several blasts hit Baghdad, including a suicide bombing in which 15 died.

There were also attacks in other major cities. Officials blame al-Qaeda.

Correspondents say the violence highlights fears about the stability of Iraq ahead of the formal end of US combat operations next week.

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