EXPLOSIONS AT BAGHDAD HOTELS

EXPLOSIONS AT BAGHDAD HOTELS, SOLDIERS AND IRAQI FORCES SECURE AREA

BAGHDAD, Iraq - A combination of rockets and car bombs exploded near the outer walls of the Palestine and Sheraton hotels in downtown Baghdad, on the evening of Oct. 24.

Initial reports of civilian casualties have yet to be determined. No Coalition Forces were injured in the attack. Iraqi security forces and Coalition Forces are securing the area and bringing order to the site.

UPDATE: CAR BOMB ATTACKS FAIL; SOLDIER FIRES ON CEMENT TRUCK

BAGHDAD, Iraq -- Three car bombs detonated near the Palestine and Sheraton hotels in central Baghdad early Oct. 24.

The first car bomb caused a breach in an outer barrier wall of the Palestine and Sheraton hotels at Firdos Square traffic circle.

About five minutes later a second car bomb approached the square and tried to maneuver through the breach but was engaged by civilian security forces and detonated near the 14th Ramadan Mosque.

Thirty seconds later, a Task Force Baghdad Soldier engaged a cement truck that was moving through the breached wall. The truck exploded near a coalition vehicle causing moderate damage.

At least six civilians were killed and 15 others were wounded in the attacks. No Coalition Forces were injured.

Coalition Forces continue to assist Iraqi security forces restoring order in and around the two hotels.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THIS RELEASE, CONTACT TASK FORCE BAGHDAD PUBLIC AFFAIRS AT DAVID.ABRAMS@ID3.ARMY.MIL. -30-

HEADQUARTERS UNITED STATES CENTRAL COMMAND, 7115 South Boundary Boulevard, MacDill AFB, Fla. 33621-5101, Phone: (813) 827-5894; FAX: (813) 827-2211; DSN 651-5894, October 24, 2005, Release Numbers: 05-10-83 and 05-10-85, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

more at CENTCOM and Iraq or Terrorism and Palestine Hotel or 14th Ramadan Mosque and Task Force Baghdad or Coalition Forces