23 killed in a series of Baghdad car bombings

FOUR car bombings killed at least 23 people and injured 56 others in Baghdad yesterday, according to police.

Three additional explosions caused by roadside bombs in western and eastern Baghdad killed three insurgents planting the devices.

The first two bombs went off in front of two restaurants in the predominantly Shiite suburb of Shula in western Baghdad, killing at least 11 and injuring 28. The third - apparently driven by a suicide bomber - ran into a nearby bus station, killing at least eight and injuring 20.

Meanwhile, in Brussels yesterday, Iraq won wide support from the international community at a key conference with pledges of aid and possible debt relief. "It's a good day for Iraq," said the foreign minister, Hoshyar Zebari.

Among the steps to emerge was a new donors' conference on 18-19 July in Jordan; assurances from several nations to follow through on recent pledges of aid or to consider debt relief; and expert advice on drafting a constitution ahead of December elections.