At least 20 Shia pilgrims were killed today in a bomb blast near the holy Iraqi city of Karbala, officials said.

Security chiefs said around 90 people were wounded in the blast from a device placed on a motorcycle.

The attack was the latest in a string of bombings this week that have targeted pilgrims making their way to an important Shia religious observance in Karbala.

The blasts have raised fears of a rise in attacks by suspected Sunni insurgents when the pilgrimage culminates on Friday.

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08/03/2010: Obama congratulates Iraqis on over national vote
07/03/2010: 36 die as Iraqis defy intimidation to vote
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07/03/2010: Eight die as Iraqis defy violence to vote
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