Twin suicide bombers target Baghdad, killing 27 in popular shopping district

[Peter1469]

Twin suicide bombers target Baghdad, killing 27 in popular shopping district

This is the first major ISIL attack in Iraq since the Islamic State's defeat. Expect more.

A pair of suicide bombers blew themselves up in central Baghdad early Monday, killing 27 people and injuring scores more in the first major attack in the capital since Iraq declared victory over the Islamic State in December.

The attack also breached one of Baghdad’s most secure areas, underscoring the urgency of what Iraqi and American officials have said is a crucial transition from combat to traditional counterterrorism.

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Iraq’s Interior Ministry said the first bomber targeted Baghdad’s Tayaran Square at about 7 a.m., with the second explosion coming less than 10 minutes later. The square is a major way station for commuters and a popular spot for day laborers to gather in the hopes of picking up work.

If you are ever near a suicide bombing, remember the favored tactic is the follow-on attack to get the first responders and citizens who stop to help the wounded or just gawk.