Blasts outside Green Zone as US, Iraq close in on military pact

BAGHDAD (AFP) - Bombs exploded outside the Iraqi capital’s tightly guarded Green Zone on Tuesday as US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte wrapped up a visit focusing on a controversial military pact.

Two powerful blasts went off in quick succession at a time of heavy traffic. An Iraqi security official said one soldier and six civilians were wounded in the attack on the edge of the Green Zone.

Inside the zone, Iraqi Foreign Minister Hoshyar Zebari told reporters an agreement was “very close,” but nothing was final.