At least 38 killed in Iraq funeral bombing

BAGHDAD, Feb. 29 (UPI) -- At least 38 people were killed by a suicide bomb during a funeral northeast of the capital, officials said Monday.

The bomber detonated a suicide vest during a Shia funeral about 60 miles northeast of Baghdad in the town of Muqdadiyah. Another 55 were injured, officials said. The Islamic State has reportedly taken responsibility for the bombing.

The attack comes barely a day after two bombs in the Shia district of Sadr City killed 78 people and injured more than 100 others, for which the Islamic State also took credit.

Among those reportedly killed Monday was a senior leader of a local Iranian-backed Shia militia Asaib Ahl al Haq.

The bomber blew up his vest as he approached two Shia commanders of the Popular Mobilisation Forces attending the funeral

The Diyala region is frequently attacked by the Islamic State, despite Iraqi officials claiming victory there. The militant group has promised more attacks as well.