Bombings in Baghdad

Three explosions in Baghdad today. The first one took out part of the barrier surrounding the area so that the second one could come in. The second one was a cement truck and it was one he!! of a blast. That one was right next to the Palistine Hotel where all the international journalists have stayed over the last two years. The third (they believe) was a rocket launched grenade into the Sheraton Hotel across the circle from the Palistine Hotel. According to Fox News' report:

Iraq's national security adviser, Mouwafak al-Rubaie (search), said the attack — which appeared well-planned — was a "very clear" effort to take over the hotel and seize journalists as hostages.

According to that same report the three trucks came in and blew up about two minutes apart. So far the death toll is up to 20 and may rise. At this point they are saying that no US troops are among the dead.