An American air strike in Iraq on Wednesday killed a senior commander from a pro-Iran armed group who was involved in attacks on Washington's troops in the region, the US military said.

U.S. drone strike kills a leader of an Iran-backed militia in Iraq

A senior commander from an armed organization that supported Iran was killed by an American air strike in Iraq on Wednesday. The commander was involved in attacks against Washington's forces in the area, according to the US military.

US airstrikes Iraq: US Says It Killed Pro-Iran Commander In Iraq Strike

A senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah – an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon linked to the fatal attack that killed three American troops in Jordan – was killed&nbsp;in a drone strike on a vehicle in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday (Feb 7) night,&nbsp;the US military said.

<h2>What we know about the strike</h2>

The American "forces conducted a unilateral strike in Iraq in response to the attacks on US&nbsp;service members, killing a Kataib Hezbollah commander responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US&nbsp;forces in the region," a statement by the US military's&nbsp;Central Command said on social media.

It added, "There are no indications of collateral damage or civilian casualties at this time."

A report by the Associated Press citing militia officials said the drone strike hit a car in the Iraqi capital and killed three members of the Kataib Hezbollah group, including a high-ranking commander.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;US' presence disrupts the security of West Asia, says Iran's Raisi

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-presence-disrupts-the-security-of-west-asia-says-irans-raisi-687992/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The senior commander killed was Abu Baqir al-Saadi, said a report by&nbsp;Reuters citing two sources. One of the sources told the news agency that three people were killed and that the vehicle targeted was used by Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF).&nbsp;

The PMF is a state security agency composed of dozens of armed groups, many of them close to Iran and also reportedly includes fighters and commanders from Kataib Hezbollah.&nbsp;

A report by AFP citing a security source reported the deaths of two officials of the Iran-backed militia which had previously taken part in attacks on US forces in Iraq.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-matter-of-months-netanyahu-says-about-israels-victory-amid-war-in-gaza-687991">Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas’ ceasefire deal, vows to fight until ‘total victory’</a>

As per AP, one of those killed was Wissam Mohammed “Abu Bakr” al-Saadi, the commander in charge of Kataib Hezbollah’s operations in Syria.&nbsp;

<h2>Three American troops killed in Jordan</h2>

The strike in Iraq comes days after the US military launched air strikes on dozens of sites in Iraq and Syria which they said are being used by Iran-backed militias and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard.&nbsp;

The strikes are being conducted in response to the drone strike on a base in Jordan which killed three US soldiers last month.&nbsp;

The US and allied troops have been attacked more than 165 times in the Middle East since mid-October amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-houthi-rebels-target-two-more-vessels-in-red-sea-including-one-carrying-coal-to-india-687759">Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India</a>

According to reports, the attacks on US forces are a campaign waged by Iran-backed armed groups in the region who are angered by Washington’s support for Israel amid the ongoing war.

After the fatal drone strike on US forces in January, the Pentagon said that the attack bore the “footprints” of Kataib Hezbollah. The Iran-backed group then announced it was suspending military operations against American military personnel in the region.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah – an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon linked to the fatal attack that killed three American troops in Jordan – was killed in a drone strike on a vehicle in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday (Feb 7) night, the US military said.

A senior commander of Kataib Hezbollah – an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon linked to the fatal attack that killed three American troops in Jordan – was killed in a drone strike on a vehicle in eastern Baghdad on Wednesday (Feb 7) night, the US military said. What we know about the strike The American "forces conducted a unilateral strike in Iraq in response to the attacks on US service members, killing a Kataib Hezbollah commander responsible for directly planning and participating in attacks on US forces in the region," a statement by the US military's Central Command said on social media. It added, "There are no indications of collateral damage or civilian casualties at this time." A report by the Associated Press citing militia officials said the drone strike hit a car in the Iraqi capital and killed three members of the Kataib Hezbollah group, including a high-ranking commander. WATCH | US' presence disrupts the security of West Asia, says Iran's Raisi The senior commander killed was Abu Baqir al-Saadi, said a report by Reuters citing two sources. One of the sources told the news agency that three people were killed and that the vehicle targeted was used by Iraq’s Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF). The PMF is a state security agency composed of dozens of armed groups, many of them close to Iran and also reportedly includes fighters and commanders from Kataib Hezbollah. A report by AFP citing a security source reported the deaths of two officials of the Iran-backed militia which had previously taken part in attacks on US forces in Iraq. ALSO READ | Israel-Hamas war: Netanyahu rejects Hamas’ ceasefire deal, vows to fight until ‘total victory’ As per AP, one of those killed was Wissam Mohammed “Abu Bakr” al-Saadi, the commander in charge of Kataib Hezbollah’s operations in Syria. Three American troops killed in Jordan The strike in Iraq comes days after the US military launched air strikes on dozens of sites in Iraq and Syria which they said are being used by Iran-backed militias and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The strikes are being conducted in response to the drone strike on a base in Jordan which killed three US soldiers last month. The US and allied troops have been attacked more than 165 times in the Middle East since mid-October amid the ongoing war between Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas in Gaza. ALSO READ | Middle East crisis: Houthi rebels target two more vessels in Red Sea, including one carrying coal to India According to reports, the attacks on US forces are a campaign waged by Iran-backed armed groups in the region who are angered by Washington’s support for Israel amid the ongoing war. After the fatal drone strike on US forces in January, the Pentagon said that the attack bore the “footprints” of Kataib Hezbollah. The Iran-backed group then announced it was suspending military operations against American military personnel in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

US drone strike in Iraqi capital kills leader of Iran-linked militia

US says it killed pro-Iran commander in Iraq strike

US drone strike kills Kataib Hezbollah commander

US airstrikes Iraq: Iran says airstrikes by US violate Iraqi and Syrian sovereignty

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday criticised the deployment of US troops in the Middle East, saying it “disrupts security”. Watch in the report for more details!

US' presence disrupts the security of West Asia, says Iran's Raisi

In less than 30 minutes, the United States struck 85 targets spread across 7 cities in Iraq and Syria. These American airstrikes were carried out as a reprisal against a drone attack on an American base in Jordan, in which 3 American soldiers were killed and 40 others were injured. And according to the United States, this is just the beginning of a multi-tiered response. Even though both the Americans and the Iranians have repeatedly insisted that neither side wants a full-blown conflict. What is abundantly clear is that the Israel-Gaza war that began on the 7th of October has spread way beyond the frontiers of Gaza. By backing the Israeli offensive in the Gaza Strip to the hilt, the United States is getting more and more involved in this new West Asia conflict. And even if the political leaders at this moment are not willing to say it out loud, what is playing out is a subtle but steady proxy war between the United States and Iran. Our next report will get you the details

United States unleashes deadly airstrikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq & Syria

Iran's nuclear programme remains subject of global criticism. Iran aims to achieve production capacity of 20,000 megawatts. In 2018, US imposed sanctions on Tehran for nuclear activities. Watch to know more!

Iran begins construction of nuclear reactor

Iran on Monday (Feb 5) confirmed it had&nbsp;commenced the construction of a new nuclear research reactor in the central city of Isfahan. The new 10-megawatt facility is being built to create a powerful neutron source, according to&nbsp;state media outlet IRNA.&nbsp;

“Today, the process of pouring concrete for the foundation of the reactor started at the Isfahan site,” Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, was quoted as saying by the agency.&nbsp;

Amid biting US sanctions, the new facility is expected to help in conducting&nbsp;fuel and nuclear material tests as well as the production of industrial radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals.&nbsp;

The announcement comes days after Tehran announced it was constructing a nuclear power plant complex in the south.&nbsp;

Eslami said last week the construction of the nuclear power plant complex would comprise four individual plants with a combined production capacity of 5,000 megawatts.

"We must reach the production capacity of 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power in the country by the year 2041," said Eslami.&nbsp;

Notably, only the US, France, China, Russia and South Korea have&nbsp;more than 20,000 megawatts of nuclear capacity installed.

The rapid construction of nuclear facilities suggests that Iran was looking to enhance its nuclear weapons programme - a proposition that may not go down well with the Western bloc.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iaea-cannot-guarantee-irans-nuclear-programme-is-peaceful-514209">WATCH |&nbsp;IAEA: Cannot guarantee Iran's nuclear programme is peaceful</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iaea-cannot-guarantee-irans-nuclear-programme-is-peaceful-514209/embed" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Iran's nuclear ambitions</h2>

Western countries for long have accused Tehran of developing nuclear weapons - a claim repeatedly denied by Tehran.&nbsp;

Iran is of the view that&nbsp;nuclear watchdog IAEA's&nbsp;probe into the matter needs to be closed before any agreement can be reached on restoring the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, also called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Notably, in 2018, former US president Donald Trump reneged on the deal and restored harsh sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to gradually violate the agreement's nuclear limits.&nbsp;

It was one of the reasons why&nbsp;Germany, France and Britain last year refused to&nbsp;remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-france-and-uk-refuse-to-lift-sanctions-on-iran-under-jcpoa-636069">Also read |&nbsp;Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA</a>

The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones.&nbsp;

However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to&nbsp;European Union External Affairs Chief&nbsp;Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Monday (Feb 5) confirmed it had commenced the construction of a new nuclear research reactor in the central city of Isfahan. The new 10-megawatt facility is being built to create a powerful neutron source, according to state media outlet IRNA.

Iran on Monday (Feb 5) confirmed it had commenced the construction of a new nuclear research reactor in the central city of Isfahan. The new 10-megawatt facility is being built to create a powerful neutron source, according to state media outlet IRNA. “Today, the process of pouring concrete for the foundation of the reactor started at the Isfahan site,” Mohammad Eslami, head of the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran, was quoted as saying by the agency. Amid biting US sanctions, the new facility is expected to help in conducting fuel and nuclear material tests as well as the production of industrial radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals. The announcement comes days after Tehran announced it was constructing a nuclear power plant complex in the south. Eslami said last week the construction of the nuclear power plant complex would comprise four individual plants with a combined production capacity of 5,000 megawatts. "We must reach the production capacity of 20,000 megawatts of nuclear power in the country by the year 2041," said Eslami. Notably, only the US, France, China, Russia and South Korea have more than 20,000 megawatts of nuclear capacity installed. The rapid construction of nuclear facilities suggests that Iran was looking to enhance its nuclear weapons programme - a proposition that may not go down well with the Western bloc. WATCH | IAEA: Cannot guarantee Iran's nuclear programme is peaceful Iran's nuclear ambitions Western countries for long have accused Tehran of developing nuclear weapons - a claim repeatedly denied by Tehran. Iran is of the view that nuclear watchdog IAEA's probe into the matter needs to be closed before any agreement can be reached on restoring the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, also called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Notably, in 2018, former US president Donald Trump reneged on the deal and restored harsh sanctions on Iran, prompting Tehran to gradually violate the agreement's nuclear limits. It was one of the reasons why Germany, France and Britain last year refused to remove ballistic missile and nuclear proliferation-related sanctions on Iran. Also read | Germany, France and UK refuse to lift sanctions on Iran under JCPOA The original deal stated that some UN sanctions were supposed to be lifted on October 18, 2023, as part of the sunset clause which would have allowed Iran to import and export ballistic missiles and drones. However, the three European nations, known as E3, wrote a letter to European Union External Affairs Chief Josep Borell and said Tehran was in serious breach of the deal - meaning the sanctions could not be lifted. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran starts construction of new nuclear reactor, further antagonising the West

Iran&nbsp;said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;were ruled out.&nbsp;

White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Sunday the US will press on with its retaliation against&nbsp;Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;

Asked whether the United States would rule out the possibility of striking&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;directly, Sullivan told NBC, "it would not be wise for me to talk about what we're ruling in and ruling out."&nbsp;

"If (Iran) chose to respond directly to the United States, they would be met with a swift and forceful response from us," he said.

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani hit back on Monday, saying: "The Islamic Republic has shown that it has always reacted decisively to any threat to its security, territorial integrity and sovereignty."&nbsp;

Iran&nbsp;"will not hesitate to use its capabilities" to respond to any attacks on its soil, said Kanani during his weekly press briefing.&nbsp;

He nonetheless reiterated that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;"does not seek to aggravate tensions and crises in the region".

Regional tensions have soared since the October 7 outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, drawing in&nbsp;Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Lebanon.&nbsp;

The US military said it carried out airstrikes against five missiles in Yemen on Sunday.

The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Yemen's&nbsp;Iran-backed Huthis -- their third round of joint military action in response to the rebels' persistent attacks on shipping.&nbsp;

The Huthis say their attacks in the Red Sea are in solidarity with Palestinians in war-battered Gaza.&nbsp;

The US military struck targets in Syria and Iraq overnight on Friday to Saturday, in retaliation for a January 28 drone attack on a base in Jordan that killed three US soldiers.

The Islamic republic condemned the strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq. &nbsp;

President Joe Biden has blamed "radical&nbsp;Iran-backed militant groups" for the attack in Jordan, but said the United States does not seek a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Iran said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on Iran were ruled out.

Iran said Monday it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory after the White House declined to say whether strikes on Iran were ruled out. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Sunday the US will press on with its retaliation against Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria. Asked whether the United States would rule out the possibility of striking Iran directly, Sullivan told NBC, "it would not be wise for me to talk about what we're ruling in and ruling out." "If (Iran) chose to respond directly to the United States, they would be met with a swift and forceful response from us," he said. Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani hit back on Monday, saying: "The Islamic Republic has shown that it has always reacted decisively to any threat to its security, territorial integrity and sovereignty." Iran "will not hesitate to use its capabilities" to respond to any attacks on its soil, said Kanani during his weekly press briefing. He nonetheless reiterated that Iran "does not seek to aggravate tensions and crises in the region". Regional tensions have soared since the October 7 outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war, drawing in Iran-backed groups in Iraq, Syria, Yemen and Lebanon. The US military said it carried out airstrikes against five missiles in Yemen on Sunday. The strikes came a day after US and UK forces launched a wave of air raids against Yemen's Iran-backed Huthis -- their third round of joint military action in response to the rebels' persistent attacks on shipping. The Huthis say their attacks in the Red Sea are in solidarity with Palestinians in war-battered Gaza. The US military struck targets in Syria and Iraq overnight on Friday to Saturday, in retaliation for a January 28 drone attack on a base in Jordan that killed three US soldiers. The Islamic republic condemned the strikes in Yemen, Syria and Iraq. President Joe Biden has blamed "radical Iran-backed militant groups" for the attack in Jordan, but said the United States does not seek a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Iran says 'will not hesitate' to respond to US attack on its territory

Iran has initiated its visa-free policy for Indian tourists visiting the West Asian nation, effective from February 4, as per a press release by the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Indian capital of Delhi. Following the approval of the Government of Iran, Indian citizens holding ordinary passports will now be able to enter Iran without a visa once every six months, with a maximum stay of 15 days per visit. The 15 days will not be extended, as per the official statement. Moreover, this visa-free arrangement applies exclusively to individuals entering Iran for tourism purposes.

"If Indian nationals wish to stay for a longer period or make multiple entries within a six-month period or require other types of visas, they must obtain the necessary visas through the respective representations of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India," the statement read.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-airport-ground-worker-falls-from-truck-gets-killed-by-plane-being-towed-behind-it-687544">Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being&nbsp;struck&nbsp;by&nbsp;plane</a>

Moreover, Iran said that this visa abolition pertains specifically to Indian nationals entering Iran via air border.

During the initial eight months of the ongoing Iranian year, foreign arrivals to the country saw a remarkable surge, reaching 4.4 million. This signifies a notable increase of 48.5 percent when compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year.

The list of countries approved for Iran's visa-waiver programme is -&nbsp;India, Saudi Arabia, Russia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Seychelles, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Japan, Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Tunisia, Mauritania, Tanzania, Brazil, Peru, Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Belarus.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-footage-shows-struggling-killer-whales-trapped-in-ice-off-japans-hokkaido-687554">Drone footage shows struggling killer whales trapped in ice off Japan's Hokkaido</a>

Iran had visa waiver programmes in place for visitors from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Oman, China, Lebanon, and Syria.

This comes as, in a bid to enhance tourism, various countries have recently implemented similar visa waiver policies for Indian citizens. Thailand waived visa requirements for Indian travellers until May 2024. Similarly, Sri Lanka announced visa-free entry for India and six other countries, including China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand, until March 21, 2024.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-government-alarmed-by-citizens-recruited-in-russian-army-687563">Nepal government alarmed by citizens recruited in Russian Army</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nepal-government-alarmed-by-citizens-recruited-in-russian-army-687563/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Additionally, Malaysia eliminated visa requirements for Indian and Chinese tourists from December 1 last year, allowing a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. It is contingent upon passing security screenings. Kenya also joined in December by abolishing visa requirements for Indian passport holders.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Iran has initiated its visa-free policy for Indian tourists visiting the West Asian nation, effective from February 4, as per a press release by the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Indian capital of Delhi.

Iran has initiated its visa-free policy for Indian tourists visiting the West Asian nation, effective from February 4, as per a press release by the embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Indian capital of Delhi. Following the approval of the Government of Iran, Indian citizens holding ordinary passports will now be able to enter Iran without a visa once every six months, with a maximum stay of 15 days per visit. The 15 days will not be extended, as per the official statement. Moreover, this visa-free arrangement applies exclusively to individuals entering Iran for tourism purposes. "If Indian nationals wish to stay for a longer period or make multiple entries within a six-month period or require other types of visas, they must obtain the necessary visas through the respective representations of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India," the statement read. Also Read | Hong Kong airport: Ground worker falls from truck, dies after being struck by plane Moreover, Iran said that this visa abolition pertains specifically to Indian nationals entering Iran via air border. During the initial eight months of the ongoing Iranian year, foreign arrivals to the country saw a remarkable surge, reaching 4.4 million. This signifies a notable increase of 48.5 percent when compared to the corresponding period in the preceding year. The list of countries approved for Iran's visa-waiver programme is - India, Saudi Arabia, Russia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Qatar, Kuwait, Lebanon, Zimbabwe, Mauritius, Seychelles, Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam, Japan, Singapore, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Tunisia, Mauritania, Tanzania, Brazil, Peru, Cuba, Mexico, Venezuela, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Belarus. Also Read | Drone footage shows struggling killer whales trapped in ice off Japan's Hokkaido Iran had visa waiver programmes in place for visitors from Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Oman, China, Lebanon, and Syria. This comes as, in a bid to enhance tourism, various countries have recently implemented similar visa waiver policies for Indian citizens. Thailand waived visa requirements for Indian travellers until May 2024. Similarly, Sri Lanka announced visa-free entry for India and six other countries, including China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand, until March 21, 2024. Watch | Nepal government alarmed by citizens recruited in Russian Army × Additionally, Malaysia eliminated visa requirements for Indian and Chinese tourists from December 1 last year, allowing a visa-free stay of up to 30 days. It is contingent upon passing security screenings. Kenya also joined in December by abolishing visa requirements for Indian passport holders. (With inputs from agencies)

For tourism boost, Iran announces visa-free policy for Indian tourists meeting THESE conditions

In a major diplomatic move to boost ties with India, Iran initiated a visa-free policy for Indian Travelers. The country passed the updated Visa eligibility criteria for Indian passport holders on February 4th. Watch to know more.

Iran initiates visa-free travel for Indian Passport holders

Iranian forces bank on Saviz & Behshad ships. The Houthi rebel attacks triggered reprisals by US & UK forces. According to reports, Iranian warships spotted near the Behshad vessel. Behshad & Saviz vessels registered as commercial cargo ships. Both have been present in the Red Sea for years. As alarm increases over Iran's 'floating armouries,' are Saviz & Behshad ships serving as spy positions for Iran guards? Watch to know more!

Red Sea Crisis: Saviz & Behshad ships serving as spy positions for Iran guards?

Amidst fear of further escalation in West Asia, the US has stepped up its military action in the region, after an attack on its base in Jordan killed 3 troops. For the past three days, it has carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran-linked targets in the region. While Iran has warned that it will not hesitate it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of US attacks on its territory.

Iran: 'Will not hesitate' to respond to US attacks on territory

Iranian Oil Minister Javad Owji has met with the top Venezuelan officials, including Foreign Minister Yván Gil, during his visit to the Latin American country.

Iran and Venezuela look to strengthen energy ties

Amidst fear of further escalation in West Asia, the US has stepped up its military action in the region, after an attack on its base in Jordan killed 3 troops. For the past three days, it has carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran-linked targets in the region. While Iran has warned that it will not hesitate it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of us attacks on its territory.

In a shocking revelation, documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services. <o:p></o:p>

As per the FT report, the state-controlled Petrochemical Commercial Company (PCC) and its British subsidiary, PCC UK, have been under US sanctions since November 2018, accused of raising funds for the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force and collaborating with Russian intelligence agencies.<o:p></o:p>

Both banks allegedly provided accounts to British front companies secretly owned by PCC. <o:p></o:p>

Elaborate network and complicated web of front entities<o:p></o:p>

Despite being under US sanctions, PCC's UK division continued to operate from an office in Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia, using a complex network of front entities in the UK and other countries. <o:p></o:p>

The Royal Air Force recently joined US airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, further escalating tensions. <o:p></o:p>

The UK and US have recently imposed sanctions on what they call a "transnational assassinations network" overseen by Iranian intelligence. <o:p></o:p>

PCC has been accused of using UK companies to receive funds from Iranian front entities in China, concealing their ownership through trustee agreements and nominee directors.<o:p></o:p>

UK banks linked to Iranian front companies<o:p></o:p>

One of the implicated companies, Pisco UK, registered to a house in Surrey, allegedly received a transfer from a Chinese company named Black Tulip through a Santander account. <o:p></o:p>

Internal documents reveal Pisco UK's full control by PCC, contradicting its official ownership records.<o:p></o:p>

Another front company, Aria Associates, with an account in Lloyds, is officially owned by Mohamed Ali Rejal, the deputy chief executive of PCC UK. <o:p></o:p>

Emails show Rejal's involvement in directing funds and concealing PCC's association with the transactions.<o:p></o:p>

Banks respond and politicians react<o:p></o:p>

Santander stated it was unable to comment on specific client relationships but emphasised its focus on sanctions compliance, indicating that the bank had closed Pisco's account. <o:p></o:p>

Lloyds Banking Group also refrained from commenting on individual customers but claimed compliance with sanctions laws. <o:p></o:p>

Politicians, including Alicia Kearns and Liam Byrne, expressed concerns about the UK's failure to curb such activities on its soil, calling for stronger actions against IRGC-connected entities. <o:p></o:p>

David Asher, a former US state department official, criticised UK banks for continuing business with IRGC-connected entities, deeming it inconsistent with the stated policy towards the Iranian regime. <o:p></o:p>

Continued operations and international connections<o:p></o:p>

As PCC continued operations in the UK, it entered contracts for equipment procurement with a Turkish company, ASB, later sanctioned by the US for collaborating with senior IRGC officials. <o:p></o:p>

Audit reports for PCC UK from 2021 indicate significant trading balances with PCC in Iran, allowing it to persist despite western banks being blocked from conducting business with the company. <o:p></o:p>

PCC UK's Belgravia office is also revealed to be the registered address for NIOC International Affairs (London) Ltd, a division of Iran's US-sanctioned national oil company, implicated in financing IRGC and Iranian military activities.<o:p></o:p>

In a shocking revelation, documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services.

In a shocking revelation, documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services. As per the FT report, the state-controlled Petrochemical Commercial Company (PCC) and its British subsidiary, PCC UK, have been under US sanctions since November 2018, accused of raising funds for the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force and collaborating with Russian intelligence agencies. Both banks allegedly provided accounts to British front companies secretly owned by PCC. Elaborate network and complicated web of front entities Despite being under US sanctions, PCC's UK division continued to operate from an office in Grosvenor Gardens, Belgravia, using a complex network of front entities in the UK and other countries. The Royal Air Force recently joined US airstrikes against Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, further escalating tensions. The UK and US have recently imposed sanctions on what they call a "transnational assassinations network" overseen by Iranian intelligence. PCC has been accused of using UK companies to receive funds from Iranian front entities in China, concealing their ownership through trustee agreements and nominee directors. UK banks linked to Iranian front companies One of the implicated companies, Pisco UK, registered to a house in Surrey, allegedly received a transfer from a Chinese company named Black Tulip through a Santander account. Internal documents reveal Pisco UK's full control by PCC, contradicting its official ownership records. Another front company, Aria Associates, with an account in Lloyds, is officially owned by Mohamed Ali Rejal, the deputy chief executive of PCC UK. Emails show Rejal's involvement in directing funds and concealing PCC's association with the transactions. Banks respond and politicians react Santander stated it was unable to comment on specific client relationships but emphasised its focus on sanctions compliance, indicating that the bank had closed Pisco's account. Lloyds Banking Group also refrained from commenting on individual customers but claimed compliance with sanctions laws. Politicians, including Alicia Kearns and Liam Byrne, expressed concerns about the UK's failure to curb such activities on its soil, calling for stronger actions against IRGC-connected entities. David Asher, a former US state department official, criticised UK banks for continuing business with IRGC-connected entities, deeming it inconsistent with the stated policy towards the Iranian regime. Continued operations and international connections As PCC continued operations in the UK, it entered contracts for equipment procurement with a Turkish company, ASB, later sanctioned by the US for collaborating with senior IRGC officials. Audit reports for PCC UK from 2021 indicate significant trading balances with PCC in Iran, allowing it to persist despite western banks being blocked from conducting business with the company. PCC UK's Belgravia office is also revealed to be the registered address for NIOC International Affairs (London) Ltd, a division of Iran's US-sanctioned national oil company, implicated in financing IRGC and Iranian military activities.

Iran's Covert Cash Trail: Lloyds and Santander implicated in global sanctions-evasion scandal

The US has confirmed that they have carried out additional strikes in Yemen to target the rebels in retaliation to the Iran bread Houthi Rebels attacking the shipping vessels in the Red Sea. According to US Central Command, they carried out strikes in self-defence against Houthi Rebels.

Israel-Hamas war | US Centcom carries out 'self-defence' strikes in Yemen

<o:p></o:p>WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>

Iran's Covert Cash Trail: Lloyds and Santander implicated in global sanctions-evasion scandal<o:p></o:p>

Documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/irans-covert-cash-trail-lloyds-santander-implicated-in-global-sanctions-evasion-scandal-687029">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Paytm's Peril: CEO Vijay Sharma battles regulatory storm as valuation plummets<o:p></o:p>

Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the visionary CEO of Paytm, is facing one of the most challenging periods in his entrepreneurial journey. This comes after the central bank of India ordered Paytm's banking arm to halt most of its operations due to "persistent non-compliances" and "supervisory concerns."<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/paytms-peril-ceo-vijay-sharma-battles-regulatory-storm-as-valuation-plummets-687066">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Turkey's new central bank chief vows to maintain tight monetary policy amid inflation concerns<o:p></o:p>

In a change of leadership, Fatih Karahan took the helm as the new governor of Turkey's central bank, replacing Hafize Gaye Erkan. Karahan, a 42-year-old economist with a University of Pennsylvania economics PhD, emphasised his commitment to a stringent monetary policy aimed at curbing inflation.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/turkeys-new-central-bank-chief-vows-to-maintain-tight-monetary-policy-amid-inflation-concerns-687074">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

China's exporters on the brink as prolonged deflation threatens survival<o:p></o:p>

China's exporters, particularly smaller enterprises, find themselves at a crossroads as prolonged factory deflation takes a toll on profit margins. <o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-exporters-on-the-brink-as-prolonged-deflation-threatens-survival-687086">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Samsung's Lee Jae-yong acquitted in stock and accounting fraud case: Report<o:p></o:p>

Samsung's top executive, Lee Jae-yong, popularly known as Jay Y. Lee, was acquitted by a South Korean court on Monday, with charges of stock price manipulation and accounting fraud.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/samsungs-lee-jae-yong-acquitted-in-stock-and-accounting-fraud-case-report-687108">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Meta Platforms shatters records with a $196 bn surge in stock market value<o:p></o:p>

In a historic turn of events on Friday, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, experienced an unprecedented surge, adding a staggering $196 billion in stock market value.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/meta-platforms-shatters-records-with-a-196-bn-surge-in-stock-market-value-687112">Read more here</a>

Canada extends ban on foreign ownership of housing amid housing affordability crisis<o:p></o:p>

In response to growing concerns about housing affordability, Canada has taken a significant step by extending the ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing for an additional two years.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/canada-extends-ban-on-foreign-ownership-of-housing-amid-housing-affordability-crisis-687094">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Jeff Bezos plans to offload 50 mn Amazon shares valued at $8.6 bn by January 2025<o:p></o:p>

Amazon's founder, Jeff Bezos, has revealed plans to sell up to 50 million shares of the e-commerce and cloud services giant by January 31, 2025, as per a company filing on Friday.<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/jeff-bezos-plans-to-offload-50-mn-amazon-shares-valued-at-86-bn-by-january-2025-687120">Read more here</a> <o:p></o:p>

Federal Reserve Chair Powell signals prudence in considering rate cuts amid strong economy<o:p></o:p>

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell conveyed a message of caution in deciding when to cut the benchmark interest rate, emphasising the importance of prudence in a Sunday night interview with CBS's "60 Minutes."<o:p></o:p>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/federal-reserve-chair-powell-signals-prudence-in-considering-rate-cuts-amid-strong-economy-687124">Read more here</a><o:p></o:p>

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy. Iran's Covert Cash Trail: Lloyds and Santander implicated in global sanctions-evasion scandal Documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services.

WION's Business Desk brings you this daily round up of global stories from the world of business and economy. Iran's Covert Cash Trail: Lloyds and Santander implicated in global sanctions-evasion scandal Documents obtained by the Financial Times (FT) have exposed how Iran illicitly utilised Lloyds and Santander UK to move money worldwide, forming a vast sanctions-evasion scheme supported by Tehran's intelligence services. Read more here Paytm's Peril: CEO Vijay Sharma battles regulatory storm as valuation plummets Vijay Shekhar Sharma, the visionary CEO of Paytm, is facing one of the most challenging periods in his entrepreneurial journey. This comes after the central bank of India ordered Paytm's banking arm to halt most of its operations due to "persistent non-compliances" and "supervisory concerns." Read more here Turkey's new central bank chief vows to maintain tight monetary policy amid inflation concerns In a change of leadership, Fatih Karahan took the helm as the new governor of Turkey's central bank, replacing Hafize Gaye Erkan. Karahan, a 42-year-old economist with a University of Pennsylvania economics PhD, emphasised his commitment to a stringent monetary policy aimed at curbing inflation. Read more here China's exporters on the brink as prolonged deflation threatens survival China's exporters, particularly smaller enterprises, find themselves at a crossroads as prolonged factory deflation takes a toll on profit margins. Read more here Samsung's Lee Jae-yong acquitted in stock and accounting fraud case: Report Samsung's top executive, Lee Jae-yong, popularly known as Jay Y. Lee, was acquitted by a South Korean court on Monday, with charges of stock price manipulation and accounting fraud. Read more here Meta Platforms shatters records with a $196 bn surge in stock market value In a historic turn of events on Friday, Meta Platforms, the parent company of Facebook, experienced an unprecedented surge, adding a staggering $196 billion in stock market value. Read more here Canada extends ban on foreign ownership of housing amid housing affordability crisis In response to growing concerns about housing affordability, Canada has taken a significant step by extending the ban on foreign ownership of Canadian housing for an additional two years. Read more here Jeff Bezos plans to offload 50 mn Amazon shares valued at $8.6 bn by January 2025 Amazon's founder, Jeff Bezos, has revealed plans to sell up to 50 million shares of the e-commerce and cloud services giant by January 31, 2025, as per a company filing on Friday. Read more here Federal Reserve Chair Powell signals prudence in considering rate cuts amid strong economy Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell conveyed a message of caution in deciding when to cut the benchmark interest rate, emphasising the importance of prudence in a Sunday night interview with CBS's "60 Minutes." Read more here

WION Business Wrap | Iran’s convert cash trail, Paytm’s regulatory storm and more

In the latest development on Middle East crisis,&nbsp;John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US&nbsp;strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.&nbsp;

In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5).

In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court.

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-crisis-us-may-launch-additional-strikes-against-iran-backed-groups-686946">Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/04/409987-us-and-uk-air-strikes-on-houthi-positions.png?imwidth=500" />

White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow.&nbsp;

The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jharkhand-floor-test-today-champai-govt-confident-of-win-ex-cm-soren-to-cast-vote-687009">Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410034-untitled-design-2.png?imwidth=500" />

A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-grammy-awards-2024-full-list-of-winners-updating-live-686970">Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live)</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410030-horizons-5.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for&nbsp;The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-writer-yang-hengjun-given-suspended-death-sentence-in-china-687028">Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410048-untitled-design-3.png?imwidth=500" />

Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-startups-raised-732-million-across-107-deals-in-january-2024-687032/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow.

In the latest development on Middle East crisis, John Kirby, the White House national security spokesman said the recent US strikes on Iran-backed groups on Friday night (Feb 2) mark only the initial phase of action, with further measures to follow. In the Indian state of Jharkhand, Chief Minister Champai Soren's government is poised for a victory in the floor test scheduled for Monday (Feb 5). In other news, Chinese-origin Australian writer Yang Hengjun, accused of espionage by China, received a suspended death sentence from a Beijing court. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East Crisis: US may launch additional strikes against Iran-backed groups White House national security spokesman John Kirby on Sunday (Feb 4) that the strikes which took place Friday night by the United States against Iran-backed groups were just the "first round" of action and more will follow. The US military hit Tehran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria were a retaliation for a deadly attack on US troops in Jordan, which killed three US soldiers. A day after that, the US and the United Kingdom unleashed attacks on the Iran-aligned Houthis of Yemen late on Saturday in a joint action. Jharkhand floor test today: Champai govt confident of win, ex-CM Soren to cast vote A floor test in the Indian state of Jharkhand will take place on Monday (Feb 5) with Chief Minister Champai Soren's government confident of a win. Former chief minister Hemant Soren, who has been arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), will cast his vote in the floor test. Champai Soren became the CM last week following political upheaval in the state. Grammy Awards 2024: Full list of winners (updating live) Music’s biggest night is here as The Recording Academy brought out its big guns to acknowledge the best in the world of music last year. Ahead of the main televised event, Grammys premiere ceremony began at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. While Elaine Martone picked up her Grammy for being the Producer of the Year in Classical music, Michelle Obama won Best Audio Book, Narration, and Storytelling Recording for The Light We Carry: Overcoming In Uncertain Times. Australian writer Yang Hengjun given suspended death sentence in China Australian writer Yang Hengjun a suspended death, who was accused of espionage by China, was given a suspended death sentence by a court in Beijing on Monday (Feb 5). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Sydney-based scholar Feng Chongyi said the court delivered a suspended death sentence that would convert to life imprisonment after two years. Watch | Indian startups raised $732 million across 107 deals in January 2024

Morning news brief: US mulls more strikes on Iran-backed groups; Grammy Awards 2024, and more

US and UK have launched retaliatory airstrikes over Red Sea attacks. Pentagon says it targeted 13 locations across Yemen. Iraq summoned US envoy in Baghdad after American strikes. The strikes in Syria & Iraq reportedly killed 40. Iran has condemned US response in Syria and Iraq. Watch to know more!

Iran condemns US retaliation strike in Syria & Iraq | Red Sea Crisis

Pentagon says it has targeted 13 Houthi location across Yemen

US retaliatory strikes in repose to Jordan attacks have begun after launching air strikes on 85 Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. Washington launched attacks against 36 targets in Yemen with the support of several other countries. All this while US says that it does not want to escalate tensions in West Asia.

US launches new missile strikes

US and UK have launched retaliatory airstrikes over Red Sea attacks. Pentagon says it targeted 13 locations across Yemen. Iraq summoned US envoy in Baghdad after American strikes. The strikes in Syria & Iraq reportedly killed 40. Iran has condemned US' response in Syria and Iraq. Watch to know more!

US and UK's joint strikes hit 36 Houthi targets in Yemen | Red Sea Crisis

US retaliates after deadly drone attack on Jordan base. 'US military forces struck targets in Iraq & Syria,' says US President Joe Biden. Baghdad has condemned the US strikes. Watch to know more!

US hits 85 Iran linked targets in Syria and Iraq | Drone Attack on Jordan Base

Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have confirmed they are joining the BRICS bloc after being invited last year, South Africa's Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said on Wednesday.

Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE join BRICS

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by&nbsp;an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-kataib-hezbollah-the-iran-backed-group-allegedly-behind-the-jordan-strike-on-us-troops-685166">Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group</a>, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes.&nbsp;

Across the Atlantic, the Russian representative in the United Nations&nbsp;has called for the UN Security Council meeting over US strikes in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-kataib-hezbollah-the-iran-backed-group-allegedly-behind-the-jordan-strike-on-us-troops-685166">Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan?</a>

US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq.

Washington ordered attack on&nbsp;"IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia".

The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries.

<h2>Scale of American attack in Iraq and Syria</h2>

The US Central Command claimed that its forces hit as many as 85 targets in seven facilities, four in Syria and three in Iraq. The US reportedly used a mix of drones and long-range B1 bombers that flew all the way from the United States in a purported demonstration of the US airpower.&nbsp;

Iraq's Prime Minister's Office confirmed the US attacks in the Iraqi territory and described it as violation of its sovereignty. It also summoned the US envoy in Baghdad.&nbsp;

"In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian areas," Iraq's Prime Minister's Office said in an official statement.

Akashat is located 518 km west of Baghdad, while Al-Qa'im region is 319 km northwest of the Iraqi capital.

<img alt="The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a905f4f-d41d-4e51-8bbb-98741731a060" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-03T164143.679.png" />

The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps

The American invasion of Iraq with Washington's false proclamation&nbsp;of presence of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' in the country, has left a lasting effect on Iraqi life and lifelines. The consequent emergence of the Islamic State (Of Iraq and Syria) also resulted in thousands of civilian deaths.&nbsp;

For the current wave of attacks on its territory, Iraq has said that "the American side intentionally engaged in deception and distortion of facts, stating coordination with Iraqi authorities for the perpetration of this aggression".&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The American administration has carried out a new act of aggression against Iraq's sovereignty. In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian…
— المكتب الإعلامي لرئيس الوزراء 🇮🇶 (@IraqiPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraqiPMO/status/1753721427176399008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The Iraqi government said that civilians were among 16 people killed in the US strikes in Iraq.&nbsp;

<h2>Syria's reaction</h2>

The Syrian military&nbsp;said on Saturday (Feb 2) that the US occupation of Syrian territory "cannot continue" after Washington carried out deadly strikes in retaliation for a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan.

The overnight strikes killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property", the Syrian military said in a statement.

"The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," it added, affirming the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation".

The United States has not struck inside the Iranian territory, with both Washington and Tehran seemingly keen to avoid all-out war.

<h2>Are regional proxies responding to US attacks?</h2>

The militants of Islamic Resistance in Iraq on Saturday (Feb 2) claimed that they have targeted the al-Harir air base hosting US forces in northern Iraq. But three security sources later told Reuters that no such attack had occurred.

<h2>Iran's reaction</h2>

Tehran on Saturday (Feb 2) condemned US air strikes on Iraq and Syria as a "strategic mistake" by its arch-foe. Iran, however, did not mention that if there were any Iranian casualties in the strikes.

"Last night's attack on Syria and Iraq is an adventurous action and another strategic mistake by the US government, which will have no result other than intensifying tension and instability in the region," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said in a statement.

US strikes overnight in eastern Syria killed 23 pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said&nbsp;in a new toll for the American retaliatory action.

"The toll has risen to 23 dead: 10 pro-Iran fighters in the Deir Ezzor area and 13 in the Mayadeen area," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding that nine of the fighters were Syrians while six were Iraqis. There were no reported civilian deaths.

(With inputs from agencies)

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. Across the Atlantic, the Russian representative in the United Nations has called for the UN Security Council meeting over US strikes in Iraq and Syria. Also read | Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan? US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq. Washington ordered attack on "IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia". The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries. Scale of American attack in Iraq and Syria The US Central Command claimed that its forces hit as many as 85 targets in seven facilities, four in Syria and three in Iraq. The US reportedly used a mix of drones and long-range B1 bombers that flew all the way from the United States in a purported demonstration of the US airpower. Iraq's Prime Minister's Office confirmed the US attacks in the Iraqi territory and described it as violation of its sovereignty. It also summoned the US envoy in Baghdad. "In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian areas," Iraq's Prime Minister's Office said in an official statement. Akashat is located 518 km west of Baghdad, while Al-Qa'im region is 319 km northwest of the Iraqi capital. The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps The American invasion of Iraq with Washington's false proclamation of presence of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' in the country, has left a lasting effect on Iraqi life and lifelines. The consequent emergence of the Islamic State (Of Iraq and Syria) also resulted in thousands of civilian deaths. For the current wave of attacks on its territory, Iraq has said that "the American side intentionally engaged in deception and distortion of facts, stating coordination with Iraqi authorities for the perpetration of this aggression". The American administration has carried out a new act of aggression against Iraq's sovereignty. In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian… — المكتب الإعلامي لرئيس الوزراء 🇮🇶 (@IraqiPMO) February 3, 2024 × The Iraqi government said that civilians were among 16 people killed in the US strikes in Iraq. Syria's reaction The Syrian military said on Saturday (Feb 2) that the US occupation of Syrian territory "cannot continue" after Washington carried out deadly strikes in retaliation for a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan. The overnight strikes killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property", the Syrian military said in a statement. "The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," it added, affirming the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation". The United States has not struck inside the Iranian territory, with both Washington and Tehran seemingly keen to avoid all-out war. Are regional proxies responding to US attacks? The militants of Islamic Resistance in Iraq on Saturday (Feb 2) claimed that they have targeted the al-Harir air base hosting US forces in northern Iraq. But three security sources later told Reuters that no such attack had occurred. Iran's reaction Tehran on Saturday (Feb 2) condemned US air strikes on Iraq and Syria as a "strategic mistake" by its arch-foe. Iran, however, did not mention that if there were any Iranian casualties in the strikes. "Last night's attack on Syria and Iraq is an adventurous action and another strategic mistake by the US government, which will have no result other than intensifying tension and instability in the region," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said in a statement. US strikes overnight in eastern Syria killed 23 pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said in a new toll for the American retaliatory action. "The toll has risen to 23 dead: 10 pro-Iran fighters in the Deir Ezzor area and 13 in the Mayadeen area," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding that nine of the fighters were Syrians while six were Iraqis. There were no reported civilian deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis deepens as nearly 40 killed in US strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria

Indian Navy foils another piracy attempt. Iranian vessel FV Omari rescued off the east coast of Somalia. Indian Navy rescued 11 Iranian, 8 Pakistani sailors. Watch to know more!

Indian Navy rescues another Iranian-flagged vessel off the east coast of Somalia | Red Sea Crisis

Syria said on Saturday (Feb 3) that a number of people died and also got injured following US strikes in the country. In a statement, the Syrian military said that the strikes on Friday killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property.

Syria said on Saturday (Feb 3) that a number of people died and also got injured following US strikes in the country. In a statement, the Syrian military said that the strikes on Friday killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property." "The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," the military said and affirmed the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation". According to a report by the news agency AFP, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights chief Rami Abdel Rahman said that at least 26 major sites housing pro-Iranian groups were destroyed in Syria, including weapons depots. Rahman added 23 pro-Iran fighters were killed in the strikes. The air strikes On Friday, the US launched air strikes against Iranian forces and allied militias in Iraq and Syria with President Joe Biden vowing more to come in retaliation for a deadly drone attack on an American base in Jordan last week. Also read | Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences' The strikes, which lasted for 30 minutes, targeted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and "affiliated militia groups," with American forces -- including long-range bombers flown from the United States -- hitting "more than 85 targets," the US Central Command said in a statement. "The airstrikes employed more than 125 precision munitions," the statement added. The targets included command and control and intelligence centres, as well as rocket, missile and drone storage facilities belonging to militia groups and their IRGC sponsors who facilitated attacks against US and coalition forces. 'Strikes a violation of Iraq's sovereignty' General Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for Iraq's prime minister, called the strikes a "violation" of his country's sovereignty and said they would bring "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region." Also watch | Baghdad condemns US strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, Iraq × Two Iraqi security sources told AFP that the strikes damaged a weapons warehouse and a command centre belonging to pro-Iranian groups in western Iraq, along the Syrian border, resulting in at least some injuries. Militants target al-Harir air base hosting US forces Hours after the US strikes on Saturday, Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) militants targeted the al-Harir air base hosting American forces in northern Iraq, the news agency Reuters reported citing the group. (With inputs from agencies)

US occupation of our territory cannot go on: Syria says number of people dead, wounded in American strikes

The US launched an air assault on several sites in Iraq and Syria used by Iran-backed militias. The attacks come in retaliation to the Drone strike that killed three US service members in Jordan.

US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria

iran

Iran, News on Iran, stories on Iran, articles on Iran, Iran stories at Wion, Iran news, Iran latest news