Explosions rocked the Brussels airport and its subway system Tuesday, killing at least 31 people according to Belgian media, injuring scores more and prompting authorities to lock down the Belgian capital.
The two airport blasts, at least one of them blamed on a suicide bomber, left behind a chaotic scene of splattered blood in the departure lounge as windows were blown out, ceilings collapsed and travellers streamed out of the smoky building.
READ MORE: Witnesses describe bloody, chaotic scenes after airport, subway explosions
About an hour later, another bomb exploded on a rush-hour subway train near the European Union headquarters. Terrified passengers had to evacuate through darkened tunnels to safety.
“What we feared has happened,” Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel told reporters. “In this time of tragedy, this black moment for our country, I appeal to everyone to remain calm but also to show solidarity.”
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The Islamic State later claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying its extremists opened fire in the airport and “several of them” detonated suicide belts.
The posting in the group’s Amaq news agency said another suicide attacker detonated in the metro.
READ MORE: How the deadly Brussels attacks unfolded at the airport and subway
The posting claimed the attack was in response to Belgium’s support of the international coalition arrayed against the group.
This is a developing story, follow our live blog below for up to the minute coverage. (WARNING: Graphic images)
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