Baghdad, Iraq (CNN) -- At least 36 people were killed and 71 hurt Monday in three vehicle bombings that rocked Baghdad, an Iraqi Interior Ministry official said. The blasts targeted hotels in central Baghdad. The three explosions happened in quick succession near the Palestine, Babil and Al-Hamrra hotels, the Iraqi official said. Some news organizations have offices in the Palestine and Al-Hamrra hotels.
NEW: More than 70 also hurt in three vehicle bombings in Baghdad . NEW: Blasts targeted hotels in Iraqi capital .