Pakistan&nbsp;will not&nbsp;take&nbsp;sides&nbsp;in the escalating&nbsp;confrontation&nbsp;between neighboring&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and the United States, its&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;minister&nbsp;said on Monday, following the killing of&nbsp;Iranian military commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-updates-on-iran-general-qassem-soleimanis-death-272457">Qasem Soleimani</a> in a&nbsp;US&nbsp;drone strike.

The killing puts&nbsp;Pakistan, which is majority Sunni Muslim but has a largely Shiite minority and is anxious to avoid any regional upheaval, in a sensitive position. An ally of Saudi Arabia, Tehran's arch regional foe,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;has a complex relationship with&nbsp;Iran, with which it shares a long border.

Thousands of Shiite protesters marched in several&nbsp;Pakistani cities on Sunday to show solidarity with&nbsp;Iran. Some clashed with police in the southern city of Karachi when they attempted to march on the&nbsp;US&nbsp;consulate.

"We're clear that&nbsp;Pakistan's soil will not be used against any other state, and nor will&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;become a part of this regional conflict,"&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-foreign-minister-shah-mahmood-qureshi-calls-for-maximum-restraint-amid-west-asia-tensions-272497">Shah Mehmood Qureshi</a> told the upper house of parliament in a policy statement.

"Pakistan&nbsp;has&nbsp;taken a clear stance that&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;doesn't endorse any unilateral action," he said, in the government's first official response to the killing of Soleimani, the architect of efforts to extend&nbsp;Iran's influence across the region.

The killing has spurred fears of a major regional conflagration. On Monday hundreds of thousands of&nbsp;Iranians thronged Tehran's streets for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-will-be-a-war-crime-if-us-attacks-irans-cultural-sites-foreign-minister-zarif-272268">Soleimani's funeral</a> and his daughter said his death would bring a "dark day" for the United States.

"The Middle East was and is volatile and this region can’t afford another war. We are part of this region and when a fire erupts there,&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;can't escape," said Qureshi.

Pakistan&nbsp;is grappling with a severe economic crisis and facing heightened tensions with neighboring India. Its long land frontier with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;is rife with cross-border militant activity.

Islamabad has also long had a tense relationship with the United States over the war in neighboring Afghanistan, where&nbsp;US&nbsp;officials have frequently accused it of supporting the Taliban, a charge&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;denies.

But it badly needs&nbsp;US&nbsp;support, both in handling its severe balance of payments problems and in dealing with its nuclear-armed neighbor India after the two came close to war last year.

Qureshi said he had discussed the regional situation with the&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;ministers of&nbsp;Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others.

Pakistan&nbsp;receives aid and buys&nbsp;much of its oil from Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, which is locked in a power struggle with Shiite&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;across a region where they back opposing&nbsp;sides&nbsp;in conflicts ranging from Syria to Yemen.

Qureshi said he feared Soleimani's death could trigger an&nbsp;upsurge in sectarian tensions, including in Afghanistan.

"We believe this could have a negative impact on Afghanistan, and that its peace process, where&nbsp;Pakistan&nbsp;has played an important role, could be affected and exploited by the spoilers," Qureshi said.

Pakistan will not take sides in the escalating confrontation between neighboring Iran and the United States, its foreign minister said on Monday, following the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike.

Pakistan will not take sides in the escalating confrontation between neighboring Iran and the United States, its foreign minister said on Monday, following the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in a US drone strike. The killing puts Pakistan, which is majority Sunni Muslim but has a largely Shiite minority and is anxious to avoid any regional upheaval, in a sensitive position. An ally of Saudi Arabia, Tehran's arch regional foe, Pakistan has a complex relationship with Iran, with which it shares a long border. Thousands of Shiite protesters marched in several Pakistani cities on Sunday to show solidarity with Iran. Some clashed with police in the southern city of Karachi when they attempted to march on the US consulate. "We're clear that Pakistan's soil will not be used against any other state, and nor will Pakistan become a part of this regional conflict," Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi told the upper house of parliament in a policy statement. "Pakistan has taken a clear stance that Pakistan doesn't endorse any unilateral action," he said, in the government's first official response to the killing of Soleimani, the architect of efforts to extend Iran's influence across the region. The killing has spurred fears of a major regional conflagration. On Monday hundreds of thousands of Iranians thronged Tehran's streets for Soleimani's funeral and his daughter said his death would bring a "dark day" for the United States. "The Middle East was and is volatile and this region can’t afford another war. We are part of this region and when a fire erupts there, Pakistan can't escape," said Qureshi. Pakistan is grappling with a severe economic crisis and facing heightened tensions with neighboring India. Its long land frontier with Iran is rife with cross-border militant activity. Islamabad has also long had a tense relationship with the United States over the war in neighboring Afghanistan, where US officials have frequently accused it of supporting the Taliban, a charge Pakistan denies. But it badly needs US support, both in handling its severe balance of payments problems and in dealing with its nuclear-armed neighbor India after the two came close to war last year. Qureshi said he had discussed the regional situation with the foreign ministers of Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others. Pakistan receives aid and buys much of its oil from Sunni Muslim Saudi Arabia, which is locked in a power struggle with Shiite Iran across a region where they back opposing sides in conflicts ranging from Syria to Yemen. Qureshi said he feared Soleimani's death could trigger an upsurge in sectarian tensions, including in Afghanistan. "We believe this could have a negative impact on Afghanistan, and that its peace process, where Pakistan has played an important role, could be affected and exploited by the spoilers," Qureshi said.

'Pakistan will not become part of US-Iran conflict': Pakistan Foreign Minister Qureshi

Iraq's parliament passed a resolution earlier Sunday urging the government to expel U.S. troops from the country over the killing of Iranian Gen. Qasem Soleimani and the leader of an Iraqi militia on its soil.

Trump warns he may hit Iraq with sanctions

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians thronged Tehran's streets on January 6 for the funeral of military commander Qassem Soleimani. Millions of Iranians are expected to take part in nationwide events honouring Soleimani, in the lead up to his burial in his home town of Kerman on January 7. The commander of the elite Quds Force within Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard was killed by a US drone strike last week. #Soleiman #Iran #QassemSoleimani #Quds

Huge crowds in Tehran for Soleimani’s funeral procession

Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike Friday near Baghdad international airport, shocking the Islamic republic. He was 62.

Iran: Thousands pay respect to Soleimani; Chants 'Death To America'

US-Iran Conflict: Impact on India and Indians in West Asia

In a statement, the Iranian government said it would no longer limit the enrichment of uranium as stipulated under the 2015 nuclear agreement negotiated with world powers.

Iran Ends Commitment to Nuclear Deal After General Soleimani Killing

The funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani took place on the streets of Ahvaz city in Iran. Thousands of Iranian mourn the death of Former Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qasem Soleimani. #QasemSoleimani #QasemSoleimaniFuneral #Soleimani #US #Iran #WION

Funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani, thousands Iranian mourn Soleimani's death

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Sunday said that he spoke to Iran foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and added ''India remains deeply concerned about the levels of tension''. #WION #Iran #NuclearDeal #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #SJaishankar

India contacts West Asian nations amid escalating tensions

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country.&nbsp;

Media houses in the country challenged Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani's connections to the September 11 attacks.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump</a>

Soleimani, who was the head of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was killed on Friday in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad.

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Assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189757708189699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The American vice president on Friday said on Twitter that Soleimani "assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States."

When critics on Twitter pointed out that the 2001 terror attacks were carried out by 19 militants, and not 11, Pence spokeswoman Katie Waldman clarified that Pence was referring only to the dozen who had "transited through Afghanistan."

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Yesterday, President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> took decisive action and stood up against the leading state sponsor of terror to take out an evil man who was responsible for killing thousands of Americans. Soleimani was a terrorist. Here are some of his worst atrocities:
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189745821540353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"10 of those 12 were assisted by Soleimani," Waldman said.&nbsp;

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Directed the sophisticated January 20, 2007, attack on the Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Karbala, Iraq, in which five captured U.S. soldiers were executed.
— Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) <a href="https://twitter.com/Mike_Pence/status/1213189750409986049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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However, New York Times refuted Vice President's claims and said that Soleimani was never named in the elaborated 585-page report issued by the September 11 Commission. &nbsp;

The Washington Post said that it might be "technically correct to say that Iran 'assisted' in their (9/11 militants) travel." But, it added that did not mean Tehran, or Soleimani in particular was "knowingly assisting in what became the 9/11 attack."&nbsp;

Also, 15 of the 19 US terror attack hijackers were from Saudi Arabia, Iran's arch-rival. 
&nbsp; 
Pence went on to make his points clear through his tweets where he claimed of atrocities committed by Soleimani across a wide swath of the Middle East.

(with inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country.

A fresh row erupted in the United States after the Vice President made claims on Friday that Qasem Soleimani assisted clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the 9/11 attacks in the country. Media houses in the country challenged Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani's connections to the September 11 attacks. Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump Soleimani, who was the head of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was killed on Friday in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad. Assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × The American vice president on Friday said on Twitter that Soleimani "assisted in the clandestine travel to Afghanistan of 10 of the 12 terrorists who carried out the September 11 terrorist attacks in the United States." When critics on Twitter pointed out that the 2001 terror attacks were carried out by 19 militants, and not 11, Pence spokeswoman Katie Waldman clarified that Pence was referring only to the dozen who had "transited through Afghanistan." Yesterday, President @realDonaldTrump took decisive action and stood up against the leading state sponsor of terror to take out an evil man who was responsible for killing thousands of Americans. Soleimani was a terrorist. Here are some of his worst atrocities: — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × "10 of those 12 were assisted by Soleimani," Waldman said. Directed the sophisticated January 20, 2007, attack on the Provincial Joint Coordination Center in Karbala, Iraq, in which five captured U.S. soldiers were executed. — Mike Pence (@Mike_Pence) January 3, 2020 × However, New York Times refuted Vice President's claims and said that Soleimani was never named in the elaborated 585-page report issued by the September 11 Commission. The Washington Post said that it might be "technically correct to say that Iran 'assisted' in their (9/11 militants) travel." But, it added that did not mean Tehran, or Soleimani in particular was "knowingly assisting in what became the 9/11 attack." Also, 15 of the 19 US terror attack hijackers were from Saudi Arabia, Iran's arch-rival. Pence went on to make his points clear through his tweets where he claimed of atrocities committed by Soleimani across a wide swath of the Middle East. (with inputs from AFP)

US media challenges Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani assisting 9/11 terrorists

On January 15, China & U.S. going to have a trade agreement. The U.S. is a trade partner of China, despite China's ties with Iran. China has urged for restraint and calm. #China #US #TradeAgreement

China claims, 'Soleimani killing won't derail China-U.S. trade talks'

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani</a>.

The website of the Federal Depository Library Program was replaced with a page titled "Iranian Hackers!" that displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Iranian flag.

"Martyrdom was (Soleimani's)... reward for years of implacable efforts," read a graphic depicting US President Donald Trump being punched by a first emanating from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-punish-americans-wherever-they-are-within-its-reach-guards-commander-272154">Iran</a> as missiles fly by.

"With his departure and with God's power, his work and path will not cease and severe revenge awaits those criminals who have tainted their filthy hands with his blood and blood of the other martyrs," it said.

"This is only small part of Iran's cyber ability !" another caption on the page read in white text on a black background.

The killing of Soleimani in a drone strike in Iraq early Friday brought a furious vow of revenge from Tehran.

Described as the second most powerful man in Iran, Soleimani oversaw wide-ranging interventions in regional power struggles.

Trump has said Soleimani was planning an "imminent" attack on US personnel in Baghdad.

The president has warned that Washington is targeting 52 sites in Iran and will hit them "very fast and very hard" if the Islamic republic attacks American personnel or assets.

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani.

A group claiming to be hackers from Iran breached the website of a little-known US government agency on Saturday and posted messages vowing revenge for Washington's killing of top military commander Qasem Soleimani. The website of the Federal Depository Library Program was replaced with a page titled "Iranian Hackers!" that displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the Iranian flag. "Martyrdom was (Soleimani's)... reward for years of implacable efforts," read a graphic depicting US President Donald Trump being punched by a first emanating from Iran as missiles fly by. "With his departure and with God's power, his work and path will not cease and severe revenge awaits those criminals who have tainted their filthy hands with his blood and blood of the other martyrs," it said. "This is only small part of Iran's cyber ability !" another caption on the page read in white text on a black background. The killing of Soleimani in a drone strike in Iraq early Friday brought a furious vow of revenge from Tehran. Described as the second most powerful man in Iran, Soleimani oversaw wide-ranging interventions in regional power struggles. Trump has said Soleimani was planning an "imminent" attack on US personnel in Baghdad. The president has warned that Washington is targeting 52 sites in Iran and will hit them "very fast and very hard" if the Islamic republic attacks American personnel or assets.

Iranian hackers' claim breach of US government website

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. "Like ISIS, Like Hitler, Like Genghis! They all hate cultures. Trump is a terrorist in a suit. He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat 'the Great Iranian Nation & Culture'," Information and Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Javad Azari-Jahromi tweeted. #WION #Iran #NuclearDeal #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani

Iran to take 5th step back from Nuclear deal

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran.&nbsp;

In the video which came out in 2011, Trump said that then-president Obama will start a war with Iran because of his inability to negotiate and in order to get reelected.&nbsp;

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"Our president will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He's weak and he's ineffective. So the only way he figures that he's going to get reelected and is sure as you're sitting there is to start a war with Iran." <a href="https://t.co/Ad6IPLhOWg">pic.twitter.com/Ad6IPLhOWg</a>
— Angelo Carusone (@GoAngelo) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoAngelo/status/1212938627279466503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump</a>

"President will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He is weak and ineffective. So the only way that he figured he is going to get reelected is to start a war with Iran," Trump had said in the video.&nbsp;

Ironically, concerns were raised of war after the strained ties between Washington and Tehran became even worsened after the killing of former Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike.&nbsp;

Soleimani was a much-revered figure in Iran and its adjoining region and the pro-Iranian factions are threatening of attacking US missiles across Iraq after his killing.

Trump has been extremely critical of Obama's policies and in 2018 pulled out of former US President's nuclear deal with Iran and imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. China, Russia, Europeans were the other parties of the nuclear pact that limited Iran to extract uranium and in return avoided sanctions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran.

After the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran and at a time when World War 3 is trending on Twitter, an old video of US President Donald Trump has resurfaced where he accused his predecessor Barack Obama of starting a war with Iran. In the video which came out in 2011, Trump said that then-president Obama will start a war with Iran because of his inability to negotiate and in order to get reelected. "Our president will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He's weak and he's ineffective. So the only way he figures that he's going to get reelected and is sure as you're sitting there is to start a war with Iran." pic.twitter.com/Ad6IPLhOWg — Angelo Carusone (@GoAngelo) January 3, 2020 × Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump "President will start a war with Iran because he has absolutely no ability to negotiate. He is weak and ineffective. So the only way that he figured he is going to get reelected is to start a war with Iran," Trump had said in the video. Ironically, concerns were raised of war after the strained ties between Washington and Tehran became even worsened after the killing of former Qasem Soleimani by a US drone strike. Soleimani was a much-revered figure in Iran and its adjoining region and the pro-Iranian factions are threatening of attacking US missiles across Iraq after his killing. Trump has been extremely critical of Obama's policies and in 2018 pulled out of former US President's nuclear deal with Iran and imposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic. China, Russia, Europeans were the other parties of the nuclear pact that limited Iran to extract uranium and in return avoided sanctions.

Barack Obama will start a war with Iran: Donald Trump's 2011 video resurfaces

In 2011, Donald Trump claimed through a video that President Barack Obama (Ex-US President) will start a war with Iran as he doesn't have another option because he is weak now." That video of 2011 resurfacing on the internet as it has been claimed by some that present U.S. President Donald Trump is trying out the same method. Is it his hypocrisy that has been revealed? #USElection #US #DonaldTrump #Iran #Iraq #QasemSoleimani #WION

Trump's 2011 video resurfaces on internet claiming, "Obama will attack Iran to win polls"

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices. But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the United States the political dynamics become interesting. #WION #Iran #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani

Impact on India as US-Iran tension escalates

Iran condemned <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-media-challenges-vice-president-mike-pences-claims-of-soleimani-assisting-911-terrorists-272199">Donald Trump</a> on Sunday as a "terrorist in a suit" after the US&nbsp;president threatened to hit 52 Iranian sites hard if Tehran attacks Americans or US&nbsp;assets in retaliation for the killing of military commander Qassem Soleimani.

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Like ISIS, like Hitler, Like Genghis! 
 
They all hate cultures. Trump is a "terrorist in a suit". He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat "the Great Iranian Nation &amp; Culture".<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HardRevenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HardRevenge</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/QasemSoleimani?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#QasemSoleimani</a> <a href="https://t.co/N2iQ5AMX7M">https://t.co/N2iQ5AMX7M</a>
— MJ Azari Jahromi (@azarijahromi) <a href="https://twitter.com/azarijahromi/status/1213743924952666114?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Like ISIS, Like Hitler, Like Genghis! They all hate cultures. Trump is a terrorist in a suit. He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat 'the Great Iranian Nation &amp; Culture'," Information and Telecommunications Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/foiled-very-big-foreign-cyber-attack-iran-267687">Mohammad Javad Azari-Jahromi</a> tweeted.

Soleimani, Iran's pre-eminent military commander, was killed on Friday in a US&nbsp;drone strike on his convoy at Baghdad airport, an attack that has taken long-running hostilities between Washington and Tehran into uncharted territory and raised the spectre of a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Soleimani was the architect of Tehran’s overseas clandestine and military operations as head of the Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force.

Giving no indication of seeking to defuse tensions after the strike he ordered, Trump issued a stern threat to the Islamic Republic.

In a series of tweets on Saturday, he said Iran "is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets" to avenge Soleimani's death.

Trump said the United States has "targeted 52 Iranian sites" and that some were "at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD."

He said the 52 targets represented the 52 Americans held hostage in Iran after being seized at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-will-be-a-war-crime-if-us-attacks-irans-cultural-sites-foreign-minister-zarif-272268">US&nbsp;Embassy</a> in 1979 during the country's Islamic Revolution.

Iran's army chief, Major General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lacks-courage-for-military-confrontation-with-iran-iran-army-chief-272304">Abdolrahim Mousavi</a>, was quoted by state television on Sunday as saying the United States lacked the courage for a military confrontation with Iran.

"In a potential conflict in the future, which I don't think they (Americans) have the courage to carry out, there it will become clear where the numbers five and two will belong," he said.

Trump said on Friday Soleimani had been plotting "imminent and sinister" attacks on US&nbsp;diplomats and military personnel. Democratic critics said the Republican president's action was reckless and risked more bloodshed in a dangerous region.

Thousands of mourners turned out to pay respects to the slain commander on Sunday after Soleimani's body was returned to Iran, the official IRIB news agency reported.

While many Iranians have rallied in to show grief over the death of Soleimani, regarded as the country’s second most powerful figure after Supreme Leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-mourners-pay-respect-as-qasem-soleimanis-body-reaches-iran-272228">Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>, others worry that his death might push the country to war with a superpower.

On Friday, Khamenei promised harsh revenge and declared three days of mourning.

Soleimani's body was flown to the city of Ahvaz in southwest Iran. IRIB posted a video clip of a casket wrapped in an Iranian flag being unloaded from a plane as a military band played.

Thousands of mourners dressed in black marched through the streets of Ahvaz beating their chests in live footage aired on state TV.

British foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dominic-raab-calls-for-de-escalation-of-tensions-after-killing-of-menace-soleimani-272295">Dominic Raab</a> said on Sunday he had spoken to Iraq's prime minister and president to urge efforts to relieve tensions in the region following the US&nbsp;strike.

Raab, who described Soleimani as a "regional menace" and said he was sympathetic to the situation the United States found itself in, said he also planned to speak to Iran's foreign minister.

"There is a route through which allows Iran to come in from out of the international cold," he told Sky News. "We need to contain the nefarious actions of Iran but we also need to de-escalate and stabilise the situation."

Friday's US&nbsp;airstrike also killed Iraqi militia leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis</a>.

Iraq's parliament was set to convene an extraordinary session on Sunday where lawmakers told media that they would push for a vote on a resolution requiring the government to request the withdrawal of US&nbsp;troops from Iraq.

"There is no need for the presence of American forces after defeating Daesh (Islamic State)," said Ammar al-Shibli, a Shi'ite lawmaker and member of parliament's legal committee.

Despite decades of enmity between Iran and the United States, Iran-backed militia and US&nbsp;troops fought side by side during Iraq's 2014-2017 war against Islamic State militants.

Around 5,000 US&nbsp;troops remain in Iraq, most of them in an advisory capacity.

The militia was incorporated into government forces under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilisation Forces which Muhandis led.

Many Iraqis, including opponents of Soleimani, have expressed anger at Washington for killing the two men on Iraqi soil and possibly dragging their country into another conflict.

On Saturday evening, a rocket fell inside Baghdad’s heavily-fortified Green Zone near the US&nbsp;embassy, another hit the nearby Jadriya neighbourhood and two more were fired at the Balad air base north of the city. No one was killed, the Iraqi military said.

The US&nbsp;strike followed a spike in US-Iranian hostilities in Iraq since last week when pro-Iranian militias attacked the US&nbsp;embassy in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-ditches-iran-extends-tacit-support-to-us-over-airstrikes-for-resumption-in-military-cooperation-272236">Baghdad</a> after a deadly US&nbsp;air raid on Kataib Hezbollah, a militia founded by Muhandis. Washington accused the group of an attack on an Iraqi military base that killed an American contractor.

Iran condemned Donald Trump on Sunday as a "terrorist in a suit" after the US president threatened to hit 52 Iranian sites hard if Tehran attacks Americans or US assets in retaliation for the killing of military commander Qassem Soleimani.

Iran condemned Donald Trump on Sunday as a "terrorist in a suit" after the US president threatened to hit 52 Iranian sites hard if Tehran attacks Americans or US assets in retaliation for the killing of military commander Qassem Soleimani. Like ISIS, like Hitler, Like Genghis! They all hate cultures. Trump is a "terrorist in a suit". He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat "the Great Iranian Nation & Culture".#HardRevenge#QasemSoleimani https://t.co/N2iQ5AMX7M — MJ Azari Jahromi (@azarijahromi) January 5, 2020 × "Like ISIS, Like Hitler, Like Genghis! They all hate cultures. Trump is a terrorist in a suit. He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat 'the Great Iranian Nation & Culture'," Information and Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Javad Azari-Jahromi tweeted. Soleimani, Iran's pre-eminent military commander, was killed on Friday in a US drone strike on his convoy at Baghdad airport, an attack that has taken long-running hostilities between Washington and Tehran into uncharted territory and raised the spectre of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Soleimani was the architect of Tehran’s overseas clandestine and military operations as head of the Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force. Giving no indication of seeking to defuse tensions after the strike he ordered, Trump issued a stern threat to the Islamic Republic. In a series of tweets on Saturday, he said Iran "is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets" to avenge Soleimani's death. Trump said the United States has "targeted 52 Iranian sites" and that some were "at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD." He said the 52 targets represented the 52 Americans held hostage in Iran after being seized at the US Embassy in 1979 during the country's Islamic Revolution. Iran's army chief, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, was quoted by state television on Sunday as saying the United States lacked the courage for a military confrontation with Iran. "In a potential conflict in the future, which I don't think they (Americans) have the courage to carry out, there it will become clear where the numbers five and two will belong," he said. Trump said on Friday Soleimani had been plotting "imminent and sinister" attacks on US diplomats and military personnel. Democratic critics said the Republican president's action was reckless and risked more bloodshed in a dangerous region. Thousands of mourners turned out to pay respects to the slain commander on Sunday after Soleimani's body was returned to Iran, the official IRIB news agency reported. While many Iranians have rallied in to show grief over the death of Soleimani, regarded as the country’s second most powerful figure after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, others worry that his death might push the country to war with a superpower. On Friday, Khamenei promised harsh revenge and declared three days of mourning. Soleimani's body was flown to the city of Ahvaz in southwest Iran. IRIB posted a video clip of a casket wrapped in an Iranian flag being unloaded from a plane as a military band played. Thousands of mourners dressed in black marched through the streets of Ahvaz beating their chests in live footage aired on state TV. British foreign minister Dominic Raab said on Sunday he had spoken to Iraq's prime minister and president to urge efforts to relieve tensions in the region following the US strike. Raab, who described Soleimani as a "regional menace" and said he was sympathetic to the situation the United States found itself in, said he also planned to speak to Iran's foreign minister. "There is a route through which allows Iran to come in from out of the international cold," he told Sky News. "We need to contain the nefarious actions of Iran but we also need to de-escalate and stabilise the situation." Friday's US airstrike also killed Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. Iraq's parliament was set to convene an extraordinary session on Sunday where lawmakers told media that they would push for a vote on a resolution requiring the government to request the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq. "There is no need for the presence of American forces after defeating Daesh (Islamic State)," said Ammar al-Shibli, a Shi'ite lawmaker and member of parliament's legal committee. Despite decades of enmity between Iran and the United States, Iran-backed militia and US troops fought side by side during Iraq's 2014-2017 war against Islamic State militants. Around 5,000 US troops remain in Iraq, most of them in an advisory capacity. The militia was incorporated into government forces under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilisation Forces which Muhandis led. Many Iraqis, including opponents of Soleimani, have expressed anger at Washington for killing the two men on Iraqi soil and possibly dragging their country into another conflict. On Saturday evening, a rocket fell inside Baghdad’s heavily-fortified Green Zone near the US embassy, another hit the nearby Jadriya neighbourhood and two more were fired at the Balad air base north of the city. No one was killed, the Iraqi military said. The US strike followed a spike in US-Iranian hostilities in Iraq since last week when pro-Iranian militias attacked the US embassy in Baghdad after a deadly US air raid on Kataib Hezbollah, a militia founded by Muhandis. Washington accused the group of an attack on an Iraqi military base that killed an American contractor.

Iran's I&T Minister MJ Azari condemns Preisdent Donald Trump as 'terrorist in a suit' after attack threat

The funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani took place on the streets of Ahvaz city in Iran. Thousands of Iranian mourn the death of Former Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qasem Soleimani. #WION #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #Iran

Iran: Thousands pay respect to Qasem Soleimani

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lacks-courage-for-military-confrontation-with-iran-iran-army-chief-272304">Iran</a>'s top military general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dominic-raab-calls-for-de-escalation-of-tensions-after-killing-of-menace-soleimani-272295">Qasem Soleimani's killing</a> has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices.

But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-attack-in-the-homeland-may-come-with-little-or-no-warning-us-department-of-homeland-security-272207">United States</a> the political dynamics become interesting.

The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially.

The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia.&nbsp;

Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meatloaf-and-ice-cream-trump-savoured-an-all-american-meal-as-pentagon-confirmed-soleimanis-killing-272061">Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing</a>

<img alt="Iran " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a63e78ed-ed6e-43db-a27a-673d0c16bce0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/iran%20oil.jpg" />

Vital interests

India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala.

Transit route&nbsp;

Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. &nbsp;India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US.

The balancing act

Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time.&nbsp;

US-India ties

The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act&nbsp;

The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi.

For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq.

<img alt="us-india ties" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d6ebbb7-9eab-401c-a291-d51c90a7ce0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/us-india.jpg" />

Neutral stance

Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods.

After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests.

<img alt="oil" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="129f6695-8efc-493a-b2df-6527ed0ed945" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oil.jpg" />

Oil matters

More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-invites-iranian-foreign-minister-zarif-to-brussels-amid-rising-middle-east-tension-272290">Javad Zarif</a> stated that India must stand up to the bully.

India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices. But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the United States the political dynamics become interesting. The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially. The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia. Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large. Also read: Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing Vital interests India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala. Transit route Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US. The balancing act Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time. US-India ties The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi. For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq. Neutral stance Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods. After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests. Oil matters More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif stated that India must stand up to the bully. India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

As tension escalates between US and Iran, how is India impacted and what are New Delhi's options?  

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime".&nbsp;

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-Having committed grave breaches of int'l law in Friday's cowardly assassinations, <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realdonaldtrump</a> threatens to commit again new breaches of JUS COGENS; 
 
-Targeting cultural sites is a WAR CRIME; 
 
-Whether kicking or screaming, end of US malign presence in West Asia has begun.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1213742809095770113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The comments came after Trump tweeted early on Sunday where he warned Iran that US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American.&nbsp;

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....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593974679769093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593975732527112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump said in a tweet.&nbsp;

The tensions between Iran and the US rose after the killing of Soleimani, former chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. Concerns of war were also raised after the US drone strike that killed Soleimani and Iraq's paramilitary chief.&nbsp;

Iran's army chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi also said on Sunday that US lacked the "courage" to initiate a conflict.&nbsp;

"I doubt they have the courage to initiate," Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, reported by state news agency IRNA.&nbsp;

Earlier today, thousands of mourners cried, beat their chests as they paid respect to&nbsp;Soleimani after his last remains reached Iran.

In the southwestern city of Ahvaz, men and women shouted "Death to America" and carried portraits of the commander.

It is expected that the last remains of Soleimani, who was much-revered in the region&nbsp;will reach Iraqi capital Tehran in the evening. The funeral fo former commander will be done in his hometown Kerman on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Earlier, Iran's supreme commander Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed of "severe revenge" after the killing of former commander.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime".

Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif responded to Trump's warnings on Sunday in a tweet, saying that targetting country's cultural sites would be a "war crime". -Having committed grave breaches of int'l law in Friday's cowardly assassinations, @realdonaldtrump threatens to commit again new breaches of JUS COGENS; -Targeting cultural sites is a WAR CRIME; -Whether kicking or screaming, end of US malign presence in West Asia has begun. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 5, 2020 × The comments came after Trump tweeted early on Sunday where he warned Iran that US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American. ....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump said in a tweet. The tensions between Iran and the US rose after the killing of Soleimani, former chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. Concerns of war were also raised after the US drone strike that killed Soleimani and Iraq's paramilitary chief. Iran's army chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi also said on Sunday that US lacked the "courage" to initiate a conflict. "I doubt they have the courage to initiate," Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, reported by state news agency IRNA. Earlier today, thousands of mourners cried, beat their chests as they paid respect to Soleimani after his last remains reached Iran. In the southwestern city of Ahvaz, men and women shouted "Death to America" and carried portraits of the commander. It is expected that the last remains of Soleimani, who was much-revered in the region will reach Iraqi capital Tehran in the evening. The funeral fo former commander will be done in his hometown Kerman on Tuesday. Earlier, Iran's supreme commander Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed of "severe revenge" after the killing of former commander.

It will be a 'war crime' if US attacks Iran's cultural sites: Foreign minister Zarif

Iranian Parliament MPs shouted "Death to America!" On Sunday during a session to discuss the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in a US military strike. #IranianParliament #QasemSoleimani

Iran MPs chant 'Death to America' as Soleimani's body brought back to Tehran

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday&nbsp;that the United States is targetting 52&nbsp;sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped.&nbsp;

Taking to Twitter, Trump said Iran is talking very boldly about targetting "US assets" after the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chants-of-death-to-america-as-iraqis-mourn-death-of-iranian-commander-272136">Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani</a> 
&nbsp;

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Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, &amp; badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593965838163968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have.....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593974679769093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213593975732527112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, &amp; badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently hundreds of Iranian 
protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years."

He added that 52 represents the number of US hostages taken by Iran many years ago.&nbsp;

"Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have targetted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level &amp; important to Iran &amp; &nbsp;the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran 
itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!," Trump tweeted.

The threat by the US President comes after two mortar rounds hit an area near the US embassy in Baghdad on Saturday, in apparent retaliation after the killing of Soleimani.&nbsp;

After the mortar attack, almost simultaneously, two rockets also were fired aiming the Al-Balad airbase where American troops are deployed. However, the US and Iraqi military confirmed that there were no casualties.&nbsp;

Soleimani, a much-revered figure in Iran and nearby region, was the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' and was killed in a drone strike by the US near the Baghdad international airport. The strike killed 10 people including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.&nbsp;

Yesterday, thousands of people in Iran chanted "Death to America" and called for "revenge" in the funeral procession in honour of late commander.&nbsp;

Pro-Iranian groups in Iran are threatening of targetting US installations across Iraq with missiles and warnings to Iraqi troops, part of great anger against the killing of Soleimani.&nbsp;

Earlier Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also called for "severe revenge" and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday that the United States is targetting 52 sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped.

US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Sunday that the United States is targetting 52 sites in Iran and asserted of hitting them "very fast and very hard" if threats to the US are not stopped. Taking to Twitter, Trump said Iran is talking very boldly about targetting "US assets" after the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani. Also read: Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, & badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years. Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have..... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × ....targeted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 4, 2020 × "Iran is talking very boldly about targeting certain USA assets as revenge for our ridding the world of their terrorist leader who had just killed an American, & badly wounded many others, not to mention all of the people he had killed over his lifetime, including recently hundreds of Iranian protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years." He added that 52 represents the number of US hostages taken by Iran many years ago. "Let this serve as a WARNING that if Iran strikes any Americans, or American assets, we have targetted 52 Iranian sites (representing the 52 American hostages taken by Iran many years ago), some at a very high level & important to Iran & the Iranian culture, and those targets, and Iran itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!," Trump tweeted. The threat by the US President comes after two mortar rounds hit an area near the US embassy in Baghdad on Saturday, in apparent retaliation after the killing of Soleimani. After the mortar attack, almost simultaneously, two rockets also were fired aiming the Al-Balad airbase where American troops are deployed. However, the US and Iraqi military confirmed that there were no casualties. Soleimani, a much-revered figure in Iran and nearby region, was the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' and was killed in a drone strike by the US near the Baghdad international airport. The strike killed 10 people including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. Yesterday, thousands of people in Iran chanted "Death to America" and called for "revenge" in the funeral procession in honour of late commander. Pro-Iranian groups in Iran are threatening of targetting US installations across Iraq with missiles and warnings to Iraqi troops, part of great anger against the killing of Soleimani. Earlier Iranian Supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei also called for "severe revenge" and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".

US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump

How people in Iraq mourn death of Qasem Soleimani

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday.&nbsp;

Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city. The last remains reached Iran after thousands bid adieu to the much-revered commander in the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Najaf.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump&nbsp;</a>

A video clip by official IRIB agency showed that the coffin was wrapped in an Iranian flag and a military band started playing as soon as the coffin unloaded from the plane.&nbsp;
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6d78a13-5e5f-4e80-9c85-bdb869de53ec" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/000_1NG3AV.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(Mourners holding the coffin: Photo Credit: AFP)

The mourners were seen crying, beating their chests and carried portraits of the commander who was the chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force.
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7de93e24-6a0f-4da4-a10e-b827ac124261" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pYcLf0yl.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;(Mourners holding the coffin in Iran: Photo Credit: AFP)

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chants-of-death-to-america-as-iraqis-mourn-death-of-iranian-commander-272136">Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani</a>

Men and women gathered in Mollavi Square with flags in green, white and red, which depicted the blood of "martyrs".
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani last remains" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6dc87dfa-93d9-4448-9f28-6d301385eaf5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/wYBcMV3Q.jpg" />
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; (An Iranian carrying Soleimani's photograph: Photo Credit: Reuters)

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-punish-americans-wherever-they-are-within-its-reach-guards-commander-272154">Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within its reach: Guards commander</a>

The 62-year old general was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad international airport on Friday. Iraq's paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was also killed in the strike.&nbsp;

After Soleimani's killing, ties between Washington and Tehran got even more strained and raised concerns of a new war in the Middle East.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed "severe revenge" and declared three days of mourning in the Islamic Republic.

Earlier today, US President Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that the US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American.&nbsp;

Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump tweeted.&nbsp;

On Sunday evening, it is expected that the last remains will be flown to the Iranian capital Tehran before the funeral in Soleimani's hometown Kerman on Tuesday.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday. Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city.

Thousands of mourners dressed in black paid respect to former general Qasem Soleimani after his body reached the Iranian city of Ahvaz on Sunday. Like yesterday, mourners once again chanted "Death to America" at a mass gathering in the country's southwestern city. The last remains reached Iran after thousands bid adieu to the much-revered commander in the Iraqi cities of Baghdad and Najaf. Also read: US to target 52 Iranian sites if Americans are attacked: Donald Trump A video clip by official IRIB agency showed that the coffin was wrapped in an Iranian flag and a military band started playing as soon as the coffin unloaded from the plane. (Mourners holding the coffin: Photo Credit: AFP) The mourners were seen crying, beating their chests and carried portraits of the commander who was the chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. (Mourners holding the coffin in Iran: Photo Credit: AFP) Also read: Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani Men and women gathered in Mollavi Square with flags in green, white and red, which depicted the blood of "martyrs". (An Iranian carrying Soleimani's photograph: Photo Credit: Reuters) Also read: Iran will punish Americans wherever they are within its reach: Guards commander The 62-year old general was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad international airport on Friday. Iraq's paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was also killed in the strike. After Soleimani's killing, ties between Washington and Tehran got even more strained and raised concerns of a new war in the Middle East. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed "severe revenge" and declared three days of mourning in the Islamic Republic. Earlier today, US President Donald Trump, in a tweet, said that the US would target Iran's 52 sites if they killed any American. Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump tweeted. On Sunday evening, it is expected that the last remains will be flown to the Iranian capital Tehran before the funeral in Soleimani's hometown Kerman on Tuesday. (with inputs from agencies)

Thousands of mourners pay respect as Qasem Soleimani's last remains reach Iran

Democratic presidential contenders on Friday condemned the airstrike that killed Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, saying President Donald Trump's decision was reckless and could lead the United States to another war in the Middle East. #JoeBiden #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #DonaldTrump #WION

Trump's rivals to the White House condemn Iran strike, suggested to avoid war

It seems like the U.S. is not quite finished with its operations in West Asia. Reports have claimed that the U.S. launched fresh airstrikes on the northern part of Baghdad targeting a militia convoy. But, militia group claimed that airstrike targeted medics, not the senior leaders. #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #WION

Fresh airstrikes in North Baghdad, 6 killed & 3 injured

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said.&nbsp;

Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said.&nbsp;

The new strike comes ahead of a mourning march planned for Iranian Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary heavyweight Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad on Friday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-ordered-action-against-irans-quds-force-commander-soleimani-us-department-of-defence-271773">Trump ordered killing of top Iranian general Soleimani in Iraq: US department of defence</a>

Soleimani's killing has once again escalated tensions between Iran and the US.&nbsp;

"This is just the beginning", said senior journalist Ray Locker, while talking to WION on the heightened tension in the Middle East after the airstrikes. He also said that US action would have serious repercussions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences</a>

On the possibility of a war, Locker said that many countries don't want a war but are seeking a regime change in Iran.&nbsp;

No official confirmation was so far made on the new airtrikes, but Iraqi television state television claimed that it was from the US.&nbsp;

(with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said. Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said.

Fresh airstrikes on Iran-backed fighters near camp Taji north of Baghdad have killed six people and critically wounded three, an Iraqi Army source said. Two vehicles of Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces convoy were found dead in the strikes that took place at 1:12 am local time, the source said. The new strike comes ahead of a mourning march planned for Iranian Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani and Iraqi paramilitary heavyweight Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, who were killed in a drone strike by the US in Baghdad on Friday. Also read: Trump ordered killing of top Iranian general Soleimani in Iraq: US department of defence Soleimani's killing has once again escalated tensions between Iran and the US. "This is just the beginning", said senior journalist Ray Locker, while talking to WION on the heightened tension in the Middle East after the airstrikes. He also said that US action would have serious repercussions. Also read: The killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani and its consequences On the possibility of a war, Locker said that many countries don't want a war but are seeking a regime change in Iran. No official confirmation was so far made on the new airtrikes, but Iraqi television state television claimed that it was from the US. (with inputs from AFP and Reuters)

Iraq: New strikes on Iran-backed group kill six, three wounded

World reacts to killing Iran's Soleimani by the U.S. Mideast countries & Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi on Monday condemned airstrikes by the United States on several bases belonging to an Iranian-backed militia group in Iraq and said the attack would have consequences. #WION #DonaldTrump #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran

World reacts to killing of Iran's Soleimani by U.S., Mideast countries condemn US strikes in Iraq

Basically, Quds force is also a part of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, IRGC helped Tehran fight proxy wars on the foreign soil. This force was formed on April 22, 1979. Iran shares close ties to supreme leader Khamenei. #IRGC #Iran #US #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #WION

Role of Iran's Revolutionary Guards in Iran-U.S. conflicts

It seems like the U.S. is not quite finished with its operations in West Asia. Reports have claimed that the U.S. launched fresh airstrikes on the northern part of Baghdad targeting a militia convoy. U.S. President Donald Trump said, "Qasem Soleimani has plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now the reign of his terror is over." #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #DonaldTrump #WION

Trump: Soleimani plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now reign of his terror is over

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3).

Soleimani, a 62-year-old general who headed the overseas arm of the Revolutionary Guards, was regarded as the second most powerful figure in Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-qasem-soleimani-271974">Who is Qasem Soleimani?</a>

The commander was killed in an overnight air strike on a car convoy near Baghdad International Airport.

US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strike aimed to disrupt an "imminent attack" that would have endangered Americans in the Middle East. Democratic critics called the Republican president reckless and said he had raised the risk of more violence in a dangerous region.

Speaking on State TV, Zarif said "we will not be involved in the US' smear campaigns and their blackmailing. We will give a proper response in any manner and time, we will, as stated by the Supreme Leader."

Khamenei earlier said harsh revenge awaited the "criminals" who killed Soleimani and his death would redouble resistance against the United States and Israel. He called for three days of national mourning. 
&nbsp;

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3).

Iran will respond to the United States killing of Iranian Quds force chief Qassem Soleimani "any time and in any manner", Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Friday (January 3). Soleimani, a 62-year-old general who headed the overseas arm of the Revolutionary Guards, was regarded as the second most powerful figure in Iran after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Also read: Who is Qasem Soleimani? The commander was killed in an overnight air strike on a car convoy near Baghdad International Airport. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the strike aimed to disrupt an "imminent attack" that would have endangered Americans in the Middle East. Democratic critics called the Republican president reckless and said he had raised the risk of more violence in a dangerous region. Speaking on State TV, Zarif said "we will not be involved in the US' smear campaigns and their blackmailing. We will give a proper response in any manner and time, we will, as stated by the Supreme Leader." Khamenei earlier said harsh revenge awaited the "criminals" who killed Soleimani and his death would redouble resistance against the United States and Israel. He called for three days of national mourning.

Iran will respond to Soleimani killing 'any time, in any manner': Foreign Minister Zarif

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack.&nbsp;

Soleimani, the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was a much-revered figure in the region. He was killed yesterday along with nine others in a pre-dawn attack on Baghdad international airport, including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qasem-soleimanis-killing-what-options-does-iran-have-to-avenge-top-commanders-assassination-272107">Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination</a>
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani funeral" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21cd5f50-8ac9-4892-afe6-9caa447658dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WZ4sW59C.jpg" />
Iraqi political leaders, including caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi and clerics, attended the mass procession to honour the slain commander. &nbsp;

The coffins were first brought to Shiite shrine in northern Baghdad. The mourners chanted "Death to America!" and called for "revenge".

The mourners were dressed in black clothes and carried portraits of Iranian and Iraqi leaders.&nbsp;
<img alt="Qasem Soleimani funeral" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcc57dc0-1275-477e-ac36-9d8717fe393a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/VIw22Cbm.jpg" />
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-accuses-europeans-of-not-being-helpful-after-us-strikes-272098">Soleimani killing: US reaches out to allies, Pompeo says Europeans aren't being 'helpful'</a>

The crowd went near the Green Zone, the high-security district which includes government offices and foreign embassies, including America's.&nbsp;

The remains will be taken to Shiite holy city of Najaf before reaching Iran, which has declared three days of mourning.&nbsp;

Earlier most of the countries asked all parties to act with restraint even though, the drone strike was praised by US-ally Israel.&nbsp;

"This is a moment in which leaders must exercise maximum restraint. The world cannot afford another war in the Gulf," UN chief said.&nbsp;

The Iraqi prime minister also said that US action would "spark a devastating war".

However, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened "severe revenge" for the US-action, and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped".&nbsp;

The US, on the other hand, is approaching allies of Middle East and elsewhere to gather support. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said that he Europeans were not as "helpful" as they could be after the drone strike.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack.

Sentiments of sadness, revenge were seen on the streets of the Iraqi capital Baghdad as they bid adieu to Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani who was killed on Friday in US drone attack. Soleimani, the leader of Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards', was a much-revered figure in the region. He was killed yesterday along with nine others in a pre-dawn attack on Baghdad international airport, including Iraqi paramilitary chief Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis. Also read: Qasem Soleimani's killing: What options does Iran have to avenge top commander's assassination Iraqi political leaders, including caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdel Mahdi and clerics, attended the mass procession to honour the slain commander. The coffins were first brought to Shiite shrine in northern Baghdad. The mourners chanted "Death to America!" and called for "revenge". The mourners were dressed in black clothes and carried portraits of Iranian and Iraqi leaders. Also read: Soleimani killing: US reaches out to allies, Pompeo says Europeans aren't being 'helpful' The crowd went near the Green Zone, the high-security district which includes government offices and foreign embassies, including America's. The remains will be taken to Shiite holy city of Najaf before reaching Iran, which has declared three days of mourning. Earlier most of the countries asked all parties to act with restraint even though, the drone strike was praised by US-ally Israel. "This is a moment in which leaders must exercise maximum restraint. The world cannot afford another war in the Gulf," UN chief said. The Iraqi prime minister also said that US action would "spark a devastating war". However, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei threatened "severe revenge" for the US-action, and vowed that "God willing, his work and his path will not be stopped". The US, on the other hand, is approaching allies of Middle East and elsewhere to gather support. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, said that he Europeans were not as "helpful" as they could be after the drone strike.

Chants of 'Death to America' as Iraqis mourn death of Iranian commander Soleimani

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