Iraqi officials: Wave of attacks in Shiite areas of Baghdad kills at least 21, wounds dozens

BAGHDAD – Iraqi officials say a wave of attacks in different Shiite areas of Baghdad has killed at least 21 people and wounded dozens.

Police officials say the attacks, mostly by car bombings, targeted mainly small restaurants, daily laborers and bus stops in the Iraqi capital within a one-hour period on Tuesday morning.

The officials say about 80 people were wounded in the attacks. Medics in nearby hospitals confirmed the casualty toll. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to talk to the media.

The attacks come as the country prepares to mark a decade since the U.S.-led invasion, which began on March 20, 2003. Violence has ebbed but insurgent attacks are still frequent across Iraq.