A spate of attacks has killed at least 82 people in Iraq, overshadowing preparations to mark the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, amid warnings insurgents would look to carry out deadly strikes.

The violence, the worst in more than three weeks, hit 15 cities across the country and left 270 people wounded on Thursday, just days before the Eid festival that is set to begin on Saturday or Sunday. Some estimates hold the number of dead to be as high as 93.

Fears of Eid attacks

Iraqi officials are tightening security ahead of the Eid al-Fitr holiday that marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan this weekend.