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Islamic State of Iraq made its assertion on a Web site it often uses to post statements, CNN reported Wednesday.

The statement threatened "stronger and dreadful" attacks to come, CNN said.

The same radical group has claimed responsibility for three coordinated bombings in 2009 in which hundreds of Iraqis were wounded or killed.

The bombings followed Monday's execution of Saddam Hussein's cousin and alleged henchman Ali Hassan al-Majid -- often referred to as "Chemical Ali."

U.S. officials are concerned about maintaining security as Iraq prepares for crucial national elections March 7.

"They are trying to create the most damage they can so people question the government", said Army Gen. Ray Odierno, U.S. commander in Iraq. "They don't want to see the elections move forward. They want to see people lose interest in the elections. They don't want people to participate."

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