Skip to main content

Iraq: Militants murder Sunnis at prayer

MILITANTS targeted a Sunni mosque in Diyala province during Friday prayers today, killing at least 46 people and wounding over 50.

A suicide bomber was first into the Musab bin Omair Mosque in Imam Wais village, detonating his explosives before gunmen rushed in and opened fire on worshippers.

Fighters with the Islamic State group have been trying to convince members of two prominent local Sunni tribes — the Oal-Waisi and al-Jabour — to join them but they have thus far refused.

The towns of Jalula and al-Saadiyah have recently fallen to Islamic State militants but Imam Wais is thus far in government control.

Iraqi security forces and local Shi’ite militiamen ran to the scene following yesterday’s attack to reinforce security in the area, but they were deterred by mines. 

Four Shi’ite militiamen were killed and 134 wounded by the explosive devices.

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 9,899
We need:£ 8,101
12 Days remaining
Donate today