25 Dec 2009

Bombs kill 23 in Iraq

8:57 am on 25 December 2009

Bombs in Iraq have killed at least 23 people and wounded many others.

The BBC reportsthere were two explosions at a crowded bus station in the town of Hilla, south of Baghdad, and two further blasts in Baghdad a short time later.

Shia pilgrims are celebrating the festival of Ashura, and security has been increased around the country.

Ashura is one of the most important dates in the Shia religious calendar.