A Shiite mosque under construction in the Gazaliya neighbourhood of Baghdad was blown up early on Saturday causing large structural damage to the building but no injuries.

Gazalia is a predominantly Sunni neighbourhood and building of a Shiite mosque was a point of controversy for some people in the area.

One of local Shiites told reporters that they had received warnings from followers of Wahhabism.

Wahhabism is an extreme Sunni movement. It is among the strictest Islamic movements and considers Muslims who do not follow its teachings to be heathens and enemies.

The movement emerged during the 18th century in the Arabian Peninsula.

During two centuries of animosity, Wahhabis often raided Shiite holy cities.

Osama bin Laden was raised as a Wahhabi. (AP) http://www.ndtv.com/morenews/showmorestory.asp?slug=Shiite+mosque+blown+up+in+Baghdad&id=50366