More than 20 killed in Iraq suicide bombing

More than 20 people were killed and dozens others injured in a suicide bombing targeting a funeral procession in Iraq.

Despite tight security imposed by Iraqi forces for the procession, leaders of the Popular Mobilisation Forces were among the dead in the attack in the eastern province, Diyala.

A local security source confirmed the attack to The New Arab and said the death toll is expected to increase.

The source confirmed three leaders from the Popular Mobilisation Forces were among the dead, including the head of the 'League of the Righteous', Colonel Ali Ahmed al-Tamimi.

The anonymous source said "Iraqi forces imposed tight security measures and closed off the area in fear of more attacks," noting that dozens of militia fighters had deployed in the area to begin security checks following the attack.

A spokesman for the joint military operations, Yahya Rasool that the Islamic State group is attempting to win a media war through such actions. Rasool suggested the attacks are meant to boost the morale of IS militants especially after recent losses in the country.

Numerous attacks have rocked the Diyala province since the start of the year with violence and instability caused by armed groups. Concerns regarding the kidnapping of civilians by the Popular Mobilisation Forces as well as the ongoing IS attack have caused insecurity in the eastern province.