Obama condemns Iraqi bombings

President Barack Obama condemned Sunday two deadly car bombs set off in Baghdad near high-profile government offices that killed over 130 people.

The Iraqi government initially said that the bombings bore the signature of al-Qaeda in Iraq. The blasts went off near the federal Ministry of Justice and the Baghdad provincial offices.

"I strongly condemn these outrageous attacks on the Iraqi people, and send my deepest condolences to those who have lost loved ones," Obama said in a statement. "These bombings serve no purpose other than the murder of innocent men, women and children, and they only reveal the hateful and destructive agenda of those who would deny the Iraqi people the future that they deserve."

Obama phoned Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki at 1 p.m. Eastern to express his condolences and offer support for the nation that is still rebuilding after years of war.

"These attempts to derail Iraq's progress are no match for the courage and resilience of the Iraqi people, and their determination to build strong institutions. The United States will stand with Iraq's people and government as a close friend and partner as Iraqis prepare for elections early next year," Obama added.