Iraqi governor hit in twin blasts

Baghdad, 30 Dec-(ANA)-At least 23 people have died in two suicide bombs in the central Iraqi city of Ramadi, with conflicting reports about the provincial governor's fate.

Police and state TV said Anbar Governor Qassim Mohammed was dead, although his deputy said he had only been wounded.

The attacks struck in quick succession in the same street in the provincial capital.

Analysts have blamed recent attacks in Iraq on al-Qaeda trying to destabilise the country ahead of March elections.

The bombers are reported to have exploded their devices after driving what appeared to be official vehicles in to Ramadi's green zone, where government buildings are located under heavy protection. (ANA)

FA/ANA/30 December 2009---