Separate clashes in Iraq kill 13

       
Separate clashes broke out in Iraq, claiming the lives of 13 persons and wounding 33 including 9 police members, medical and security sources reported on Friday.        

Meanwhile, Iraqi authorities said a bomb explosion at a Sunni mosque north of Baghdad killed five worshippers and wounded about 19 others.              

Police officials say Friday's bombing occurred as worshippers were leaving mid-day prayers at al-Ghofran mosque in a primarily Sunni area of Rashidiya.                

A hospital official confirmed the casualties.                  

All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they are not authorized to speak to reporters.              
There was no immediate claim of responsibility.                

Al-Qaeda's Iraqi branch, known as the Islamic State of Iraq, often attacks civilian targets, including mosques. It primarily targets Shiites as well as security forces. In the past, it has also struck Sunni targets in an attempt to reignite sectarian fighting.                    


AP/LBCI