Two explosions go off in central Baghdad

At about 0730 GMT (around 1030 local time), two large explosions rocked central Baghdad. They came in quick succession and it is reported that they were accompanied by gunfire.

According to witnesses, plumes of thick smoke can be seen near the Green Zone which is where the capital governor and justice minister have their offices. According to local correspondents, this is the biggest explosion since the explosions that took place in the capital in August this year.

So far, it is reported that 25 people have been killed and 40 people have been injured so far according to local police but they believe that this figure is set to rise. Furthermore, they said that the bombs were placed inside vehicles believed to be trucks. They both exploded within a very short time of each other. The force of the blast could be felt miles away. A BBC correspondent a few miles away said "We're a few miles off but we could feel the force of those explosions"

The security round the area of the Green Zone has come under severe scrutin especially after the explosions in August this year which killed nearly 100 people and injured over 550. This will increase any pressure on the security especially as the bombs were closed to the area where key politicians have their offices.