Multiple bomb attacks rock Iraqi ministries, kill 21

Multiple bomb explosions have targeted Iraqi ministries in Baghdad’s heavily fortified Green Zone, leaving at least 21 people dead, officials say.

At least four explosions shook the capital’s central Allawi district, near the ministries of justice, foreign affairs and culture, an office of the communications ministry, and other government offices, Reuters reported.

Over 50 others were injured in the coordinated bombings.

Police said two car bombs were detonated, one of them near the Justice Ministry building, before a bomber blew himself up near an Interior Ministry.

A second bomber then walked into the Justice Ministry and militants attacked the building, engaging in a gun battle with Iraqi security forces.

Among the dead were at least six policemen and 12 civilians, police and medics said.