U.S. condemns Baghdad explosion, reaffirms commitment in bringing down ISIS

The United States has strongly condemned the terrorist attacks carried out by ISIS targeting a car dealership in Baghdad on Thursday, that claimed the lives of at least 45 people and injuring several others.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the victims' families and friends, and wish a full and quick recovery to those injured," U.S. State Department Acting Spokesperson Mark C. Toner said in a statement.

He said that these acts of mass murder are yet another example of ISIS's utter contempt for human life and its efforts to sow discord and division among the Iraqi people.

"Our partnership with the Iraqi Security Forces, who serve on the front-lines of this global fight, remains steadfast and unwavering," he added.

Toner said the U.S. is in close contact with Iraqi authorities, and are committed to supporting Iraqi Security Forces as they continue to fight ISIS in Mosul, and bring all those responsible for these senseless crimes to justice.

At least 45 people were killed and at least 56 others were wounded in a car explosion in southwestern Baghdad on Thursday,

According to CNN, the blast targeted a busy car market in the predominately Shiite al-Bayaa district, said an official.

Yesterday, at least 18 people were killed in a bomb attack on a predominantly Shia suburb in Baghdad after a suicide bomber detonated a vehicle in Sadr City, targeting a busy street full of garages and used-car dealers.

At least 42 people were also wounded in the attack, which was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group.

On 2 January, 35 people were killed in a bomb blast in Sadr City, in an attack claimed by the IS.