While Iran's defense and Military products have taken a spotlight at the annual high-profile defense Expo in the Iraqi Capital Bagdad. The fully Iran manufactured Mohajer-6 combat drone developed by the Islamic revolutionary guard core is making news as well. Watch in for more details!

Iran displays home-grown drone at Iran Defence Expo

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Monday arrived in Pakistan on a three-day official visit to promote cooperation. The Iranian president is accompanied by his spouse and a high-level delegation.

Iranian President Raisi arrives in Pakistan on three-day official visit

<p>According to a report, the missile employed in the suspected Israeli strike on a military facility near Isfahan in Iran was identified as 'Rampage'. The Rampage missile is an advanced air-to-surface missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Israeli Military Industries Systems. Designed to be highly precise and versatile, the Rampage is capable of striking a variety of targets with pinpoint accuracy. It is one of the most powerful weapons in modern warfare.</p>

<p>The identification of the purported missile was based on photographic evidence and the extent of damage inflicted during the attack, the report from a Hebrew media outlet Kan&nbsp;pointed out.</p>

<p>Measuring 4.7 metres&nbsp;(15 feet) in length, Rampage boasts supersonic speed. To reduce the likelihood of detection and interception by enemy air defences, the Rampage has stealthiness as one of its important features that enables it to penetrate defended airspace and strike targets with reduced risk of detection. Rampage was unveiled in 2018 and weighs over half a tonne. It is specifically engineered to penetrate and eliminate fortified structures such as bunkers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/idf-jets-hit-hezbollah-targets-in-southern-lebanon-overnight-713558">IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight</a></p>

<p>Iran has downplayed the incident claiming only the involvement of three small drones. Tehran refuted claims of any missile strikes by the Jewish nation and the Iranian foreign minister even went on to say that they were not drones but toys our children play with.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-summon-envoys-for-voting-in-favour-of-palestines-full-un-membership-713565">Israel to summon envoys for voting in favour of Palestine's full UN membership</a></p>

<p>An earlier report said that Israel used the missile&nbsp;in alleged strike on Iranian air defences near the Natanz nuclear site. However, Iranian news agencies said that no nuclear site was hit in the strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-netanyahu-gantz-slam-us-plan-to-sanction-idf-unit-713571">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu, Gantz slam US plan to sanction IDF unit</a></strong></p>

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<p>The report said that these actions taken by Israel were intended to deter Iran from future direct assaults on Israel, the country that has been involved in a war with Hamas in Gaza for over six months. Reports also suggested that Israel had plans for a broader strike on Iran however the war cabinet later dropped the idea because of the small damage the Iranian strikes incurred on Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation between Iran and Israel escalated earlier when Israel hit the Iranian consulate in the city of Damascus in Syria on April 1. The muted response reported post-Israeli strikes on Isfahan, experts say, could be a sign of de-escalation from both the parties.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


According to a report, the missile employed in the suspected Israeli strike on a military facility near Isfahan in Iran was identified as 'Rampage'. The Rampage missile is an advanced air-to-surface missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Israeli Military Industries Systems.

According to a report, the missile employed in the suspected Israeli strike on a military facility near Isfahan in Iran was identified as 'Rampage'. The Rampage missile is an advanced air-to-surface missile developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and Israeli Military Industries Systems. Designed to be highly precise and versatile, the Rampage is capable of striking a variety of targets with pinpoint accuracy. It is one of the most powerful weapons in modern warfare. The identification of the purported missile was based on photographic evidence and the extent of damage inflicted during the attack, the report from a Hebrew media outlet Kan pointed out. Measuring 4.7 metres (15 feet) in length, Rampage boasts supersonic speed. To reduce the likelihood of detection and interception by enemy air defences, the Rampage has stealthiness as one of its important features that enables it to penetrate defended airspace and strike targets with reduced risk of detection. Rampage was unveiled in 2018 and weighs over half a tonne. It is specifically engineered to penetrate and eliminate fortified structures such as bunkers. Also Read | IDF jets hit Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon overnight Iran has downplayed the incident claiming only the involvement of three small drones. Tehran refuted claims of any missile strikes by the Jewish nation and the Iranian foreign minister even went on to say that they were not drones but toys our children play with. Also Read | Israel to summon envoys for voting in favour of Palestine's full UN membership An earlier report said that Israel used the missile in alleged strike on Iranian air defences near the Natanz nuclear site. However, Iranian news agencies said that no nuclear site was hit in the strike. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu, Gantz slam US plan to sanction IDF unit × The report said that these actions taken by Israel were intended to deter Iran from future direct assaults on Israel, the country that has been involved in a war with Hamas in Gaza for over six months. Reports also suggested that Israel had plans for a broader strike on Iran however the war cabinet later dropped the idea because of the small damage the Iranian strikes incurred on Israel. The situation between Iran and Israel escalated earlier when Israel hit the Iranian consulate in the city of Damascus in Syria on April 1. The muted response reported post-Israeli strikes on Isfahan, experts say, could be a sign of de-escalation from both the parties. (With inputs from agencies)

Israel used air-to-surface missile ‘Rampage’ in alleged attack on Iran: Report

<p>Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will start his three-day visit to Pakistan starting Monday (Apr 22), as the two nations seek to mend ties following cross-border strikes last year. Raisi will land in Islamabad and meet his Pakistani counterpart, Asif Ali Zardari. Iranian foreign ministry said Sunday that Raisi will be accompanied by "a high-level delegation comprising the foreign minister... as well as a large business delegation.”</p>

<p>In January this year, tit-for-tat missile strikes across the porous border region of Balochistan ratcheted up tensions between Pakistan and Iran. Iran said it conducted strikes against an anti-Iran group based in Pakistan.</p>

<p>Then, Pakistan retaliated and conducted raids against "militant targets" in the Sistan-Balochistan province of the Shi’ite nation. This is one of the few Sunni Muslim regions in the country.</p>

<p>The attacks came as both nations traded allegations of harbouring terrorists on their soil.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Iranian foreign minister had visited Islamabad to diffuse tensions.</p>

<p>In the Monday to Wednesday visit, Raisi will also pay a visit to Lahore and Karachi to meet provincial leaders. The countries will further strengthen ties and enhance cooperation in "trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people contacts", a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjp-Z6E3tOFAxUgS2cHHUqVBMIQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ali-khamenei-thanks-iranian-forces-for-attacking-israel-urges-them-to-learn-enemy-tactics-713597" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/ali-khamenei-thanks-iranian-forces-for-attacking-israel-urges-them-to-learn-enemy-tactics-713597&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp-Z6E3tOFAxUgS2cHHUqVBMIQxfQBKAB6BAgOEAE">Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn 'enemy tactics'</a></strong></p>

<p>Pakistan is hoping to secure a joint gas project with Iran, in order to get rid of its long-running power crisis that has sapped its economic growth.</p>

<p>In March 2013, a $7.5-billion Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline was indeed signed but the project fell prey to international sanctions imposed on Tehran.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Iran vs Israel attacks: Test for Biden | WION Wideangle</strong></p>

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<p>Iran has built its own portion of the 1,800-kilometre (1,100-mile) pipeline, which was supposed to link its South Pars gas fields to the Pakistani city of Nawabshah, near Karachi.</p>

<p>In February, Pakistan’s outgoing caretaker government approved the construction of an 80km portion of the pipeline.</p>

<p>The visit comes in the wake of increased Israel-Iran tensions as Tehran counts on its allies to lend its diplomatic support against the common enemy.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will start his three-day visit to Pakistan starting Monday (Apr 22), as the two nations seek to mend ties following cross-border strikes last year.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will start his three-day visit to Pakistan starting Monday (Apr 22), as the two nations seek to mend ties following cross-border strikes last year. Raisi will land in Islamabad and meet his Pakistani counterpart, Asif Ali Zardari. Iranian foreign ministry said Sunday that Raisi will be accompanied by "a high-level delegation comprising the foreign minister... as well as a large business delegation.” In January this year, tit-for-tat missile strikes across the porous border region of Balochistan ratcheted up tensions between Pakistan and Iran. Iran said it conducted strikes against an anti-Iran group based in Pakistan. Then, Pakistan retaliated and conducted raids against "militant targets" in the Sistan-Balochistan province of the Shi’ite nation. This is one of the few Sunni Muslim regions in the country. The attacks came as both nations traded allegations of harbouring terrorists on their soil. Earlier, the Iranian foreign minister had visited Islamabad to diffuse tensions. In the Monday to Wednesday visit, Raisi will also pay a visit to Lahore and Karachi to meet provincial leaders. The countries will further strengthen ties and enhance cooperation in "trade, connectivity, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people contacts", a statement by the Iranian foreign ministry added. Also read: Ali Khamenei thanks Iranian forces for attacking Israel, urges them to learn 'enemy tactics' Pakistan is hoping to secure a joint gas project with Iran, in order to get rid of its long-running power crisis that has sapped its economic growth. In March 2013, a $7.5-billion Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline was indeed signed but the project fell prey to international sanctions imposed on Tehran. Watch: Iran vs Israel attacks: Test for Biden | WION Wideangle × Iran has built its own portion of the 1,800-kilometre (1,100-mile) pipeline, which was supposed to link its South Pars gas fields to the Pakistani city of Nawabshah, near Karachi. In February, Pakistan’s outgoing caretaker government approved the construction of an 80km portion of the pipeline. The visit comes in the wake of increased Israel-Iran tensions as Tehran counts on its allies to lend its diplomatic support against the common enemy. (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian President Raisi to visit Pakistan for mending ties following cross-border strikes

<p>After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.</p>

<p>However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power.</p>

<p>Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known.</p>

<p>A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran.</p>

<p>Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak.</p>

<p>His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status."</p>

<p>"In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added.</p>

<p>Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it".</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-iran-not-planning-retaliation-against-israel-after-attack-near-isfahan-713015">West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan</a></p>

<p>"By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X.</p>

<h2><strong>US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter.</p>

<p>"I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri.</p>

<p>"What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said.</p>

<p>However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security.

After Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir invited severe criticism on Friday (Apr 19) over terming the country's reported air strike against Iran as "lame", he was reached out to by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's confidant who told him that he was harming Israel’s national security. However, according to Channel 12 reports, there probably will not be any further repercussions for Gvir as the Israeli prime minister is reliant on him to remain in power. Gvir courted controversy after he suggested that Israel was responsible for the reported blasts that rocked Iran on Friday. Earlier in the day, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, the cause of which is not yet known. A section of US media quoting American officials said that Israel had launched its retaliatory attacks against its arch-rival Iran. Gvir, who is a member of Netanyahu's ruling coalition, took to his official social media handle X and wrote, "Scarecrow!" which translates to feeble in Hebrew slang, hinting at a suggestion that Israel was behind the explosions but the action it took was weak. His remarks swiftly grabbed attention with opposition leader Yair Lapid commenting, "Never before a minister has done such heavy damage to the country's security, its image, and its international status." "In an unforgivable tweet of one word, Ben Gvir managed to sneer and shame Israel from Tehran to Washington," he added. Shaiel Ben-Ephraim, an academic and host of a podcast on geopolitics, said that Ben Gvir "confirms the Israeli operation and ridicules it". Also read: West Asia crisis: Iran ‘not planning’ retaliation against Israel after attack near Isfahan "By doing so he undermines Israel's power of deterrence. An absolute disgrace for a minister," he wrote on X. US says ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ Following the reported explosion in Isfahan, United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (Apr 19) said that America was "not involved in any offensive operation" and declined to comment on the matter. "I'm not going to speak to these reported events... All I can say is for our part and for all the members of the G7 our focus is on de-escalation," Blinken told a press conference on the Italian island of Capri. "What we're focused on, what the G7 is focused on, and again, it's reflected in our statement, and in our conversation, is our work to de-escalate tensions, to de-escalate from any potential conflicts," he further said. However, Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani during a press briefing said that the United States was notified about the Israeli strikes way in advance. "The United States was informed at the last moment," he said, adding that "it was just information" passed on -- without saying who by. The Group of Seven ministers, in its final statement, said, "In light of reports of strikes on April 19th, we urge all parties to work to prevent further escalation. The G7 will continue to work to this end." (With inputs from agencies)

Netanyahu aide lambasts minister for suggesting Israel's role behind Iran blasts

Why war between Iran & Israel will be a nuclear contest? Who is trying to steal #Russia's Hypersonic weapons technology? Over 8 million people driven out of their homes in the one year of #Sudan's civil war & Sydney is rocked by a spate of deadly stabbings Mohammed Saleh gets you an in-depth analysis of the world's biggest warzones of the week in #worldatwarshorts

Iran-Israel Conflict: Why war between Iran & Israel will be a nuclear contest?

As tensions between Iran and Israel simmer reports say Iran has fast-tracked its acquisition of SU-35 fighter jets from Russia to Aid its ailing air fleet. Watch in for more details!

Iran-Israel war: Iran likely to receive SU-35 flanker fighter jets from Russia

West Asia continues to simmer. According to reports an explosion occurred at a military base in Iraq early on Saturday causing a large fire. Watch in for more details!

Blasts in Iraq after explosions heard near major Iranian base

Watch in the top headlines of the hour: - IDF raids refugee camps in West Bank - US House advances $95 billion aid package - Blasts rock military base in Iraq - Trump Hush Money Trial: Final jury named - North Korea heads cruise missile warhead

Blasts rock military base in Iraq | US house advances $95 billion aid package

Biden's handling of the israel-hamas war has met with criticism. Biden's strategy in the middle east crisis has definitely raised doubts on the white house role in handling peace in the region. However, this is not the first time his foreign policy has gone wrong. From Ukraine war to Afghanistan, what other policies and decisions have backfired against Biden?

Iran-Israel Clash: Biden's foreign policy failures

On the 13th of April, Iran attacked Israel. On the 19th of April, as widely reported - an Israeli missile hit Iran. But Tehran is downplaying the reported Israeli attack. What will happen next? The incident comes after weeks of soaring tensions between the two regional rivals. While details about the latest strike are still unclear, we dig deeper to understand the big picture. On #WionWideAngle this week, we find out how Israel and Iran have become archenemies and how the increasing uncertainty in the Middle East is turning out to be the biggest test for Biden and his team.

Iran vs Israel attacks: Test for Biden | WION Wideangle

Iran has said Israeli involvement in Friday's attack is still to be established and dismissed the drones used as like children's toys. Israel hasn't commented but is widely believed to be behind the strike targeting an airbase and nuclear site near Isfahan. Watch in for more details!

Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran foreign minister playS down apparent Israeli strike

Iran-Israel Tensions: Iran plays down reported Israeli attacks, signals no further retaliation

n the 13th of April, Iran attacked Israel. On the 19th of April, as widely reported - an Israeli missile hit Iran. But Tehran is downplaying the reported Israeli attack. What will happen next? The incident comes after weeks of soaring tensions between the two regional rivals. While details about the latest strike are still unclear, we dig deeper to understand the big picture. On #WionWideAngle this week, we find out how Israel and Iran have become archenemies and how the increasing uncertainty in the Middle East is turning out to be the biggest test for Biden and his team.

Iraq military base explosion: US denies reports of alleged attack in Iraq

<p>After the purported Israeli counterattack&nbsp;against Iran's strikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian played it down saying it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones."</p>

<p>This reaction came during the minister's interview with NBC News after Israel on early Friday struck a military airfield near the Iranian city of Isfahan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Israel's first attack on Iran in the wake of the April 1 strikes on the Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital of Damascus and subsequent counterstrikes by Iran on Israel, there had been heightened concerns. However, Iranian media outlets said that nuclear facilities were not hit, and reports also suggested that there were no casualties as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/west-asia-crisis-us-deploys-champ-missile-that-can-fry-iranian-nuclear-equipment-713342">West Asia crisis: US deploys ‘CHAMP’ missile that can FRY Iranian nuclear equipment</a></p>

<p>There has been a lack of progress in the hostage negotiations that is casting a shadow on any potential resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the tensions between Israel and Iran.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While blaming Netanyahu for no headway in the talks, the Iranian FM said, "It has not been able to destroy Hamas or to arrest the leaders inside Gaza, has not been able to disarm Hamas, has not been able to destroy the weapons and equipment."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benny-gantz-leads-in-preference-for-israeli-pm-netanyahu-not-far-behind-survey-713346">Benny Gantz leads in preference for Israeli PM, Netanyahu not far behind: Survey</a></p>

<p>Amirabdollahian added, "Therefore it had to resort to killing women and children... and now at the negotiating table, they are trying to get what they could not get on the ground."</p>

<p>Media outlets quoting experts and analysts have also pointed out that the muted response to the said Israeli strike on an Iranian city could mean that both parties are seeking to de-escalate tensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blast-rocks-military-base-used-by-iraqi-security-force-713350">Blast rocks military base used by Iraqi security force</a></strong></p>

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<p>This development is noteworthy because Israeli officials had previously indicated a near readiness to initiate broad strikes on Iran. However, the war cabinet later deferred the decision after assessing that the damage incurred was limited.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Hostage situation&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>With about 100 hostages still in Hamas' captivity, Iranian FM said that the militant group is "ready to go ahead with the release of the prisoners within the format of a humanitarian political package encompassing everything."</p>

<p>"I think now is a good time," he said adding, "There is a good chance for this."</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>


After the purported Israeli counterattack against Iran's strikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian played it down saying it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones.

After the purported Israeli counterattack against Iran's strikes, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian played it down saying it was not a strike but resembled "toys our children play with, not drones." This reaction came during the minister's interview with NBC News after Israel on early Friday struck a military airfield near the Iranian city of Isfahan. With Israel's first attack on Iran in the wake of the April 1 strikes on the Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital of Damascus and subsequent counterstrikes by Iran on Israel, there had been heightened concerns. However, Iranian media outlets said that nuclear facilities were not hit, and reports also suggested that there were no casualties as well. Also Read | West Asia crisis: US deploys ‘CHAMP’ missile that can FRY Iranian nuclear equipment There has been a lack of progress in the hostage negotiations that is casting a shadow on any potential resolution to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and the tensions between Israel and Iran. While blaming Netanyahu for no headway in the talks, the Iranian FM said, "It has not been able to destroy Hamas or to arrest the leaders inside Gaza, has not been able to disarm Hamas, has not been able to destroy the weapons and equipment." Also Read | Benny Gantz leads in preference for Israeli PM, Netanyahu not far behind: Survey Amirabdollahian added, "Therefore it had to resort to killing women and children... and now at the negotiating table, they are trying to get what they could not get on the ground." Media outlets quoting experts and analysts have also pointed out that the muted response to the said Israeli strike on an Iranian city could mean that both parties are seeking to de-escalate tensions. Watch | Blast rocks military base used by Iraqi security force × This development is noteworthy because Israeli officials had previously indicated a near readiness to initiate broad strikes on Iran. However, the war cabinet later deferred the decision after assessing that the damage incurred was limited. Hostage situation With about 100 hostages still in Hamas' captivity, Iranian FM said that the militant group is "ready to go ahead with the release of the prisoners within the format of a humanitarian political package encompassing everything." "I think now is a good time," he said adding, "There is a good chance for this." (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

'Toys our children play with': Iranian foreign minister reacts on Israeli strikes

Iran-Israel Tensions: Iranian foreign minister downplays Israeli attack

<p>Iraq's security services said on Saturday (April 20) there were no warplanes or drones in the air during overnight explosions that rocked Iraq’s military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups.</p>

<p>An explosion occurred overnight at an Iraqi military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups. It was an airstrike at the military base in Babylon province south of Baghdad, where Iraq's Popular Mobiliation Forces, or Hashed al-Shaabi, is stationed, according to officials.</p>

<p>An Iraqi security forces media unit said in a statement that air defence command reported "no drones or combat aircraft in the airspace of Babylon province before or during the explosion".&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/blinken-says-us-not-involved-in-any-offensive-operation-713037">Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’</a></p>

<p>One PMF fighter was killed and six were wounded, two sources at a hospital in the nearby city of Hilla said.</p>

<p>"The blast has caused material damage and injuries," PMF said in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While earlier, the ministry of interior official said the aerial bombing had killed one person and wounded eight others, the military source further reported three Iraqi military personnel had been wounded in a strike.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vetoes-palestinian-request-for-full-statehood-at-united-nations-712748">US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations</a></p>

<p>However there were no immediate claims of responsibility. But shortly after the explosion, the US military said its forces were not behind the reported strike in Iraq.</p>

<p>"The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today," US Central Command (CENTCOM) posted on social media platform X, adding that reports that American forces had carried out a strike were "not true."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Those reports are not true. The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today.</p>
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) <a href="https://twitter.com/CENTCOM/status/1781474064478966238?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier on Friday, Israel carried out an attack on Iranian territory&nbsp;days after Iran struck Israel with a barrage of drones and missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Israeli officials made no public comment on Friday's attack and Iranian officials have played down its significance.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Iraq's security services said on Saturday (April 20) there were no warplanes or drones in the air during overnight explosions that rocked Iraq’s military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups.

Iraq's security services said on Saturday (April 20) there were no warplanes or drones in the air during overnight explosions that rocked Iraq’s military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups. An explosion occurred overnight at an Iraqi military base housing a coalition of pro-Iranian armed groups. It was an airstrike at the military base in Babylon province south of Baghdad, where Iraq's Popular Mobiliation Forces, or Hashed al-Shaabi, is stationed, according to officials. An Iraqi security forces media unit said in a statement that air defence command reported "no drones or combat aircraft in the airspace of Babylon province before or during the explosion". Also read: Israel vs Iran: Blinken says US ‘not involved in any offensive operation’ One PMF fighter was killed and six were wounded, two sources at a hospital in the nearby city of Hilla said. "The blast has caused material damage and injuries," PMF said in a statement. While earlier, the ministry of interior official said the aerial bombing had killed one person and wounded eight others, the military source further reported three Iraqi military personnel had been wounded in a strike. Also read: US vetoes Palestinian request for full statehood at United Nations However there were no immediate claims of responsibility. But shortly after the explosion, the US military said its forces were not behind the reported strike in Iraq. "The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today," US Central Command (CENTCOM) posted on social media platform X, adding that reports that American forces had carried out a strike were "not true." We are aware of reports claiming that the United States conducted airstrikes in Iraq today. Those reports are not true. The United States has not conducted air strikes in Iraq today. — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 20, 2024 × Earlier on Friday, Israel carried out an attack on Iranian territory days after Iran struck Israel with a barrage of drones and missiles. Israeli officials made no public comment on Friday's attack and Iranian officials have played down its significance. (With inputs from agencies)

No drones or planes in Iraqi airspace during military base blast, says Iraq

The tensions between West Asia's two regional powerhouses Israel and Iran are at an all time high. This month's dramatic escalation kicked off with an Israeli strike on Iran's Consulate in Damascus followed by a largely foiled Iranian attack of over 300 Airborne weapons on Israel. Let's take a look at the costs of defence of both the countries.

Iran-Israel Tensions | Iran, Israel: Asymmetry in attack and defence costs

The tensions between West Asia's two regional powerhouses Israel and Iran are at an all time high. This month's dramatic escalation kicked off with an Israeli strike on Iran's Consulate in Damascus followed by a largely foiled Iranian attack of over 300 Airborne weapons on Israel...Let's take a look at the costs of defence of both the countries...! Watch in for more details!

Iran-Israel Tensions: Israel's costly defence vs Iran's cheap attack | Sizing up the costs of war

<p>A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion.</p>

<p>Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now".</p>

<p>Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X.</p>

<p>"Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported.&nbsp;Officials at Tehran's Khomeini International Airport&nbsp;urged all passengers to evacuate the airport due to the cancellation of all flights, a video shared by Iranian media showed.</p>

<p data-reactid=".1alnosbbed8.0.2.0.0.1.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-6621d81e8d515b3cbbd01e3f.0.6.0.0:$post_1">The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites.</p>

<p data-reactid=".1alnosbbed8.0.2.0.0.1.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-6621d81e8d515b3cbbd01e3f.0.6.0.0:$post_1"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-attacks-israel-in-numbers-what-makes-it-most-sophisticated-attack-on-israel-since-oct-7-711108">Iran attacks Israel: In numbers, what makes it most sophisticated attack on Israel since Oct 7</a></strong></p>

<p data-reactid=".1alnosbbed8.0.2.0.0.1.0.$lx-commentary.$lx-commentary.2.0.1.1.1:$post-6621d81e8d515b3cbbd01e3f.0.6.0.0:$post_3">The explosion comes after Iran's unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel last weekend.</p>

<p>There were also near-simultaneous reports of blasts in Iraq and southern Syria.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Iran attacks Israel: Iran warns it may review its 'nuclear doctrine'</strong></p>

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<p>A number of Western publications, including the BBC and ABC News reported that US officials have confirmed that an Israeli missile has struck Iran, a claim that could not be immediately verified at the time of filing this report.</p>

<h2><strong>What does it mean?</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, Iranian foreign minister&nbsp;Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel on Thursday (April 18)&nbsp;against taking any military action against Iran.</p>

<p>"In case the Israeli regime embarks on adventurism again and takes action against the interests of Iran, the next response from us will be immediate and at a maximum level," Amir-Abdollahian told CNN.</p>

<p>The Iranian leader&nbsp;said Iran sincerely hoped Israel would not repeat "the previous egregious error," in a purported reference to an alleged Israeli strike on Iran's embassy complex in Damascus, Syria.</p>

<p>"We have announced to the White House, sent a message to the White House and Washington DC, the administration in which we've reiterated that if the Israeli regime commits the great error once again our response will be decisive, definitive and regretful for them," Amir-Abdollahian said from the Iranian Permanent Mission to United Nations.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Iran's local media said that nuclear facilities in Isfahan were "completely secure" after the explosions.</p>

<p>"Nuclear facilities in Isfahan province are completely secure," Tasnim news agency reported quoting "reliable sources".</p>


A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported.

A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion. Iran subsequently said that it shot down several drones and that there had been "no missile attack for now". Several drones "have been successfully shot down by the country's air defence, there are no reports of a missile attack for now", Iran's space agency spokesman Hossein Dalirian said on X. "Flights over Isfahan, Shiraz and Tehran cities have been suspended," state media reported. Officials at Tehran's Khomeini International Airport urged all passengers to evacuate the airport due to the cancellation of all flights, a video shared by Iranian media showed. The province of Isfahan is home to a large air base, a major missile production complex and reportedly several nuclear sites. Also read | Iran attacks Israel: In numbers, what makes it most sophisticated attack on Israel since Oct 7 The explosion comes after Iran's unprecedented missile-and-drone attack on Israel last weekend. There were also near-simultaneous reports of blasts in Iraq and southern Syria. Also watch | Iran attacks Israel: Iran warns it may review its 'nuclear doctrine' × A number of Western publications, including the BBC and ABC News reported that US officials have confirmed that an Israeli missile has struck Iran, a claim that could not be immediately verified at the time of filing this report. What does it mean? Earlier, Iranian foreign minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian warned Israel on Thursday (April 18) against taking any military action against Iran. "In case the Israeli regime embarks on adventurism again and takes action against the interests of Iran, the next response from us will be immediate and at a maximum level," Amir-Abdollahian told CNN. The Iranian leader said Iran sincerely hoped Israel would not repeat "the previous egregious error," in a purported reference to an alleged Israeli strike on Iran's embassy complex in Damascus, Syria. "We have announced to the White House, sent a message to the White House and Washington DC, the administration in which we've reiterated that if the Israeli regime commits the great error once again our response will be decisive, definitive and regretful for them," Amir-Abdollahian said from the Iranian Permanent Mission to United Nations. Meanwhile, Iran's local media said that nuclear facilities in Isfahan were "completely secure" after the explosions. "Nuclear facilities in Isfahan province are completely secure," Tasnim news agency reported quoting "reliable sources".

Iran says 'no missile attack for now' amid reports of strike by Israel in its territory

Cryptocurrencies fell heavily and bitcoin broke below $60,000 on Friday in a rush out of risky assets following reports of an Israeli missile strike on Iran. Bitcoin slid more than 5.5% to $59,961 in the Asia session as the U.S. dollar rose broadly.

Bitcoin slides below $60000 on reports Israel attacks on Iran

While speaking to Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi on Israel-Iran tensions, he said 'Israel directly targeted Iranian consulate which means that it has targeted Iranian territory. The miscalculation has consequences and anyone who did that will have to pay for it.'

Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi on Israel-Iran tensions: Any military action will be responded strongly'

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Israel missiles hit Iran, says US media - India's massive election kicks off - Phase 1: 166 mn voters, 1625 candidates & 102 seats - Pakistan: Suicide attack in Karachi - Tehran airport resumes flights - Blasts at Isfahan, nuclear plants safe

Israel missiles hit Iran, says US media | Tehran airport resumes flights

A day after Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that Israel will 'make its own decisions' when responding to Iran's weekend airstrikes, an explosion was reportedly heard near the Iranian city of Isfahan, state media reported. The cause is currently unknown but airspace over several Iranian cities was closed shortly after the reported explosion.

Israel-Iran tensions simmer: PM Netanyahu speaks to Mossad officials, heads of Shin Bet

Australia has urged its citizens in Israel to depart if it is safe to do so amidst the Israel-Iran tensions. There is a high threat of military reprisals and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interest across the region.

Israel-Iran tensions: Australia urges citizens to leave Israel | Explosions heard in Central Iran

In response to growing fears that Tehran’s unprecedented strike on Israel may spark a larger Middle East conflict, the United States and the United Kingdom imposed more sanctions on Iran on Thursday.

US, UK impose sanctions on Iran in response to its strike on Israel

Israel has retaliated against Iran with reports of explosions heard and airspace closed around the city of Isfahan. Watch in for more details!

Israel strikes Iran as explosions heard and airspace closed

West Asia in vortex of Iran & Israel tension; Iran suspends flights over Isfahan, Tehran & Shifaz

Three drones were shot down over the Iranian city of Isfahan. This was after Iran warned that even the slightest act of retaliation by Israel will lead to 'painful response'. All eyes are now on Tehran. Will Iran retaliate?

Gravitas | Iran vs Israel: West Asia on nuclear knife edge

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that Israel warned the US about a drone attack on Iran Friday apparently targeting an air base and a nuclear site in central Iran. Watch in for more details!

Israel warned US about drone strike on Iran, says Italy

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