Iraq ups security in wake of blasts

IRAQI security forces conducted searches at checkpoints in the capital yesterday as authorities investigated the security failure that allowed two truck bombs to strike what was one of Baghdad’s safest areas and kill 155 people.

The country’s worst attacks in more than two years on Sunday targeted the Justice Ministry and Baghdad Provincial Administration in the heart of the capital, calling into question Iraq’s ability to protect itself as it prepares for January elections and the US military withdrawal.

Fear of more attacks, especially in the run-up to the elections, turned into anger over the government’s failure to keep the country secure. “Today, we came to work despite the fear inside us,” said Siham Abdul-Karim, 49, an employee of the Culture Ministry located near the site of the bombings. “We all wonder how could car bombs could reach these institutions.”