The death count from yesterday's ( July 18 ) bomb attack in Burgas, Bulgaria has risen to eight. The attack occurred yesterday morning, when a bus carrying Israeli tourists to the beach was blown up, killing the passengers and injuring dozens in vicinity. The Bulgarian bus driver died overnight in hospital. Bulgarian, US and Israeli authorities have deemed the incident a terrorist attack and Israel's Government was quick to blame Iran. Israel has promised a strong response.

The Bulgarian authorities believe the attack was carried out by a suicide bomber and a suspect with a fake US driving license has been identified. No Romanians are reported killed, according to Romania's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Burgas airport was closed and 64 Israeli tourists were provided with food and blankets before being flown out. Flights are being diverted to Varna airport.

According to reports in the media, the Bulgarian authorities are working with the CIA, the FBI and Israeli security services, while the police are continuing to collect evidence from witnesses, CCTV footage and from the scene of the attack. The bomb was in a suitcase in the luggage hold of the bus, according to Bulgaria's foreign minister.

Liam Lever, liam@romania-insider.com