They said the attack was against a federal police base between Samarra and the Tharthar lake.
A doctor said the bodies of at least 37 people were brought to Samarra hospital. "They are mostly policemen," he told AFP.
He said at least 33 people were also wounded in the attack, which some police officers said was carried out with a tank.
The area is being used in a military operation aimed at cutting off the Islamic State jihadist group's supply lines in Anbar province of western Iraq.
"The attack was carried out with a tank and left more than 70 killed and wounded," a senior police officer for Salaheddin province said.
Iraqi security forces have in recent days successfully repelled several suicide attacks involving explosives-laden vehicles thanks to guided anti-tank systems.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
