Iraqi militants unleashed a string of bombings and other attacks primarily targeting the country’s Shiite community, leaving at least 40 dead.

Bombings that hit markets and other insurgent strikes primarily targeting Iraq’s Shiite community killed 31 people today, challenging government efforts to promote a sense of stability by preventing attacks during a major Muslim holiday.

A bombing near a playground and other insurgent attacks killed 18 people including several children in Iraq today, challenging government efforts to promote a sense of stability by preventing attacks during a major Muslim holiday.