Baghdad city in Iraq. (Source: Google Maps) Baghdad city in Iraq. (Source: Google Maps)

An Iraqi police official says a man wearing a suicide belt attacked a tent serving refreshments to pilgrims in Baghdad observing an annual Shiite ritual, killing at least seven people.

The attack happened in Baghdad’s eastern al-Shaab neighborhood. The police official says at least two police officers were among the dead. At least 19 people were wounded in the attack.

A hospital official corroborated the casualties. The officials spoke anonymously as they were not authorized to brief the media.

The Islamic State group has already claimed a number of attacks on pilgrims and other Shiite gatherings since the start of the holy period of Muharrem, commemorating the death of the Imam Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammed and an iconic Shiite martyr.

📣 The Indian Express is now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@indianexpress) and stay updated with the latest headlines

For all the latest World News, download Indian Express App.