Iraq PM condemns London bombings

The Iraqi leader expressed sorrow at the loss of innocent life

Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim Jaafari has condemned the London bombings as "a shameful terrorist act".

He expressed his condolences to UK Prime Minister Tony Blair saying the attacks had nothing to do with "religions or human morals".

He spoke of the need for all nations to work together to "rid the evil of terrorism in any country".

A previously unknown Islamic group said the attack was in revenge for the UK's involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Mr Jaafari said he had learned of the explosions with "regret".

"It is a shameful terrorist act that doesn't have any relation to religions and human morals," his message said.

"While I am expressing my deep sorrow to you and, through you, to the British people and families of victims, I confirm to you our deep will to rid the evil of terrorism in any country as it appears."

Earlier this month, Mr Jaafari had called for foreign support for Iraq's fight against insurgents, warning that "car bombs can be exported everywhere".

More than 50 people died and about 700 were injured in the explosions in central London on Thursday.