Iraqi officials: Bombing near Sunni worshipers near mosque in Baghdad kills 4, wounds 20

BAGHDAD – Iraqi authorities say a bomb has exploded near a Sunni mosque in southern Baghdad, killing four worshippers and wounding 20 others.

Police officials say the bomb went off after Tuesday night prayers as the worshippers were leaving al-Hasanien mosque in the primarily Sunni neighborhood of Dora.

A hospital official confirmed the casualties. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to reporters.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility.

Al-Qaida's Iraqi branch, known as the Islamic State of Iraq, often attacks civilian targets, including mosques. It primarily targets Shiites as well as security forces. In the past it has also struck Sunni targets in an attempt to reignite sectarian fighting.