Iraq explosions

BAGHDAD, Oct. 26 (UPI) -- At least 160 people were killed and 500 injured in coordinated bomb attacks near government offices in Baghdad.

Officials said the attacks Sunday involved a bomb set off in a truck on the street and another vehicle in a parking area near the justice ministry and other government buildings near the so-called Green Zone. Investigators estimated the vehicles carried nearly 2 tons of explosives.

No one claimed responsibility for the blasts but Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki laid the blame on al-Qaida and supporters of former leader Saddam Hussein.

Violence had eased in Iraq in recent months, allowing for some road restrictions to be loosened.

Officials warn they expect violence to increase as Iraq nears a January election for seats in parliament.