Series of blasts target Iraqi political party offices

Baghdad: Police officials said a series of bombs has targeted political groups across Baghdad, wounding at least 11 people.

Two police officials said bombs struck on Saturday night outside the offices or homes of leaders of at least five political groups.

The attacks come as tensions escalate between the Shiite-led government and Sunnis, following the barring of hundreds of candidates from the March 7 parliamentary elections because of ties to Saddam Hussain.

Police said 11 people were injured in the blasts, mostly bystanders or passing civilians. No deaths were immediately reported.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorised to release the information.