The tension in the air is almost electric. Everyone feels it. It is the beginning of the Islamic year or Muharam, the first month of the Hijri year. This time of the Hijri year is important because of certain historical events that occurred hundreds of years ago. The Prophet Mohammed's remaining family were killed, and some captured, in Karbala, in south-east Iraq. It's a long, sad and involved story.
As many as 140 people were killed today in near simultaneous attacks in Baghdad and Karbala. Many of the dead were Shiite Muslims marking the Ashoura holiday, officials said. Video of the scenes showed several bodies -- many dismembered and burnt beyond recognition.