A series of attacks targeting Shiite pilgrims killed more than 100 people in Iraq on Tuesday. Some victims said they blamed the Sunnis, but also the lack of security provided by Iraqi police and U.S. forces. Though reports vary, Reuters has reported the death toll at 149.

New York Times:

BAGHDAD, March 6 — Two suicide bombers killed at least 77 Shiite pilgrims in the southern city of Hilla today, the deadliest of more than a dozen attacks that killed more than 100 Shiites marching to the holy city of Karbala on the eve of one of the most important Shiite holidays, Iraqi security authorities said.

The first attacks today struck Baghdad in the morning and early afternoon, killing close to 30 Shiite pilgrims as they left their homes or passed through the capital’s western side on their way to Karbala.

Then the most devastating explosions occurred in Hilla at about 5 p.m. local time: Two bombers waded into a thick crowd of pilgrims and detonated explosive vests, killing at least 77 people and wounding 127 others, according to the Karbala police. Iraqi state-run television put the death toll closer to 100, with twice as many wounded.

Read more

 Wait, before you go…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface.  We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

Support Truthdig
In this Article:
#bombing#civil war#civilians#religion#shia#sunni#violence