Baghdad buries its dead after massive car bombings

The death toll from Iraq’s worst attacks in more than two years climbed to 155 today as as the funerals from the victims of twin suicide bombings in the heart of Baghdad began.

Services were held around the city amid heightened security that jammed traffic during the morning rush hour. The bombings targeted two government buildings, calling into question the government’s ability to protect itself as it prepares for January elections and the US military withdrawal.

“Sadness is overwhelming today in the office,” said one government employee, who asked not to be named.

“It’s as if we are sitting at a funeral in the office because many of our colleagues and people we know were killed.”

The attacks targeted the Baghdad Provincial Administration building and the Justice Ministry, wounding hundreds of people. Officials revised the number of wounded down to about 500 today, from 700. There have been no claims of responsibility or arrests so far.

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