Suicide bomber kills seven at Baghdad mosque
A suicide bomber has struck a Shiite mosque during Friday prayers in Baghdad, killing at least seven people and wounding 18.
Violence is persisting despite a driving ban and increased security measures aimed at restoring order in the Iraqi capital.
The attacker was wearing an explosives belt and blew himself up at the Buratha mosque in northern Baghdad, said police Lt. Thaer Mahmoud.
The bomber was on foot as the streets of Baghdad were largely empty of cars due to a four-hour driving ban implemented to prevent violence during traditional Islamic prayers held every Friday.
Iraqi authorities launched a massive security operation on Wednesday with 75,000 troops deploying on the streets of Baghdad, an extended curfew – from 8.30pm until dawn – and a weapons ban.
The Buratha mosque was last attacked during Friday prayers on April 7, when four suicide bombers set off their explosives, killing at least 85 worshippers as they left the mosque after the main weekly religious service.
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