Iraq pilgrims killed in bomb blast

A bomb has killed at least 15 Shiite pilgrims near the southern Iraqi port city of Basra.

The governor of Basra province's spokesman Ayad al-Emarah said it was not clear whether today's blast near a shrine close to the town of Zubair was caused by a suicide attacker or a roadside bomb.

An official at the Basra Health Directorate and a police official confirmed the death toll.

The attacks come as Shiites commemorate the climax of Arbaeen, which marks the end of 40 days of mourning following the anniversary of the death of Imam Hussein, a revered Shiite figure.