In pictures: Green Zone blast

1 of 8 The massive blast happened at 0915 local time, rocking a checkpoint at the entrance to Baghdad's Green Zone.

2 of 8 A family member tries to resuscitate a victim of the blast. Casualties were ferried to nearby hospitals.

3 of 8 US soldiers rushed to the site, which is close to the US and UK embassies and Iraqi government offices.

4 of 8 The bombers struck as crowds were waiting to enter the heavily guarded area.

5 of 8 The force of the explosion sent thick black smoke across the Baghdad skyline.

6 of 8 A blood-stained policeman tends to a seriously injured victim of the explosion at a nearby hospital.

7 of 8 Visitors ran for cover while Iraq's new security forces, including national guardsmen, tried to clear the area.

8 of 8 It was the first major Baghdad car bomb since the transfer of sovereignty.