Iraqi police say new suicide bombing in central Baghdad kills at least 3 people

New blast hits central Baghdad, killing at least 3

BAGHDAD — Officials say a suicide bomber has killed at least three people in a strike against interior ministry offices in central Baghdad.

Police and hospital officials say the bomber in Tuesday’s attack tried to drive through a police checkpoint and blast walls protecting the criminal evidence offices at Tahariyat Square in the central neighborhood of Karradah.

The officials said those killed included 2 policeman and a civilian. They say at least 13 people were wounded.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to release details.

The attack comes a day after a series of bombings targeting hotels favored by Westerners left at least 41 dead.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

BAGHDAD (AP) — Police and health officials say the death toll in Monday’s suicide car bombings of three Baghdad hotels has risen to 41.

The officials said on Tuesday that up to 106 people were wounded in the blasts, which struck in a span of 15 minutes.

They targeted the Sheraton Ishtar Hotel, Babylon Hotel and Hamra Hotel, which are popular with Western journalists and foreign security contractors.

The attacks were another blow to an Iraqi government already struggling to answer for security lapses that have allowed bombers to carry out massive attacks since August.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to release information.