Iraq - Bombers target journalists and shi'ites in renewed attacks

Baghdad: One 25th of a second after detonation of the bomb

Insurgents have today targeted journalists and Shi’ite Muslims in an upsurge of violence this week. Attacks today hit Baghdad at 8 a.m local time with two suicide bombers hitting the Al Hamra hotel, home to many journalists and ex-pats according to CNN. At least 6 people were reported killed including 2 children and a woman. Up to 40 have been injured. In Khanaqin in north-west Iraq more than 50 were killed in a double suicide attack on two Shi’ite mosques in the town during Friday prayers [CNN]. The attacks come after recent anti-insurgent operations in western Iraq by US troops where losses have been reported on both sides. It is feared that the sectarian violence may precipitate a civil war in the country. Other accusations of abuse this week by both US forces and the Iraq government [CNN] have done little to appease those critical of the continued US presence. Criticism has also been aired in the US senate after statements by Dick Cheney over the US governments position on the torture and interrogation of prisoners. The US authority’s admission to the use of white phosphorus has also brought strong criticism. White phosphorus is a colorless-to-yellow translucent wax-like substance with a pungent, garlic-like smell. The form used by the military ignites once it is exposed to oxygen, producing such heat that it bursts into a yellow flame and produces a dense white smoke. It can cause painful burn injuries to exposed human flesh. The US deny it was used against civilians, an accusation made on Italian TV. Italy's state-run RAI24 news television aired a documentary last week that alleged the United States used white phosphorous shells in a "massive and indiscriminate way" against civilians during the Falluja offensive [CNN].
Some senators have increased their calls for a troop withdrawal as the war enters its 32nd month [CNN]. Colonol james Brown, speaking in Iraq to CNN, responded by saying : "Our jobs not done".
[14:57 GMT 18/11/2005]