Rocket Blasts Shake Central Baghdad

BAGHDAD, Iraq – Insurgents fired three rockets into central Baghdad (search) late Friday, hitting a hotel compound where foreign journalists and foreign contractors stay.

One rocket hit the concrete terrace outside a restaurant at the Palestine Hotel (search), leaving a small crater and shattering windows but causing no serious damage and no injuries.

Smoke rose from the blast site.

Another rocket hit near a checkpoint outside the hotel. It was unclear where the third round landed, security officials said.

Gunshots were also heard nearby.