Ten reported dead in double bomb attack in Israel

Ten people are reported dead and around a dozen hurt in a double bomb attack in Israel.

Two explosions rocked the old bus station and a nearby pedestrian mall in Tel Aviv this afternoon.

Hundreds of people were in the area when the explosions took place in what Israeli media said appeared to be a suicide bombing.

An Israeli government spokesman said the was an attempt by "terrorist organisations" to wreak havoc before Israel's elections and an anticipated US-led attack on Iraq.

"This is a particularly horrendous attack as it is a double bombing coming in a very crowded place at a peak time of day, therefore there are many victims," he added.

AFP