The biggest worry across the world right now is about West Asia. Will Iran's missile attacks on US military bases in Iraq bring Iran & the U.S. closer to war? Or will both the side claim victory and end this conflict? On WionEdit MollyGambhir explains. #WIONEdit #US #Iran

WION Edit: Will US-Iran tensions escalate further?

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei today declared it had given its enemy America 'a slap in the face' after pounding two Iraqi bases containing US troops with a stream of ballistic missiles.

'We have slapped Americans on the face' Ayatollah Khamenei

Iran launched missiles at US-led forces in Iraq on Wednesday in retaliation for a US drone strike last Friday on Iranian commander Major-General Qassem Soleimani, whose killing stoked fears of a new Middle East war.

Your Story: Air traffic over West Asia shrunks post Iran retaliates US' strike

Qassem Soleimani survived the horror of Iran's long war in the 1980s with Iraq to take control of the Revolutionary Guard's elite Quds Force, responsible for the Islamic Republic's foreign campaigns.

WION Dispatch: Why was Qassem Soleimani so popular?

Iran today fired over a dozen ballistic missiles on US airbases in Iraq targeting Al-Assad and Irbil. Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman said, "At approximately 5.30 pm (2230 GMT) on January 7, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against US military and coalition forces in Iraq," said. #WION #Iran

WION Dispatch: How an assassination united Iran

Britain condemns Iran's missile attacks on military bases in Iraq

Iran missile attack roils global markets

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday said that it has advised all Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iraq until further notice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to government sources, Indian airlines have been told to avoid the airspace of Iran, Iraq and the Gulf region due to the escalating tension in the said areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Indian nationals residing in Iraq are advised to be alert and may avoid travel within Iraq," MEA said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil will continue to function normally to provide all services to Indians residing in Iraq," it stated.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">MEA: Our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil will continue to function normally to provide all services to Indians residing in Iraq <a href="https://t.co/Ol0SxgWnQC">https://t.co/Ol0SxgWnQC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1214769223903301632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Singapore Airlines has also issued a statement communicating that all its flights to and from Europe will not fly over the Iranian airspace in the view of the latest developments in the region. The United States has also restricted all its civilian carriers from flying over the Gulf airspace.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iran on Wednesday fired over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">a dozen ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq</a>&nbsp;in retaliation to the US strikes at Baghdad International Airport that killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Directorate General of Civil Aviation: We had held meetings with the concerned Airlines and have sensitized them to remain vigilant and take all precautions <a href="https://t.co/8g91GFYBI8">https://t.co/8g91GFYBI8</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1214775291710558208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif said that Tehran does not seek escalation or war but will defend itself against any form of aggression.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Iran took and concluded proportionate measures in self-defence&nbsp;under Article 51 of UN Charter targeting base from which cowardly armed attack against our citizens &amp; senior officials were launched," Zarif said today.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-all-passengers-aboard-ukrainian-airplane-killed-in-crash-272841">Ukranian airplane - a Boeing 737 plane</a>, today crashed near Tehran's primary airport shortly after taking off for Kiev.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The plane, which belonged to Ukraine International Airlines, crashed shortly after taking off Iran's capital city's Imam Khomeini airport due to some technical snag. All passengers on board, as many as 170, have been killed in the air crash. &nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday said that it has advised all Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iraq until further notice. According to government sources, Indian airlines have been told to avoid the airspace of Iran, Iraq and the Gulf region due to the escalating tension in the said areas.

The Ministry of External Affairs on Wednesday said that it has advised all Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Iraq until further notice. According to government sources, Indian airlines have been told to avoid the airspace of Iran, Iraq and the Gulf region due to the escalating tension in the said areas. "Indian nationals residing in Iraq are advised to be alert and may avoid travel within Iraq," MEA said as reported by news agency ANI. "Our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil will continue to function normally to provide all services to Indians residing in Iraq," it stated. MEA: Our Embassy in Baghdad and Consulate in Erbil will continue to function normally to provide all services to Indians residing in Iraq https://t.co/Ol0SxgWnQC — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2020 × Singapore Airlines has also issued a statement communicating that all its flights to and from Europe will not fly over the Iranian airspace in the view of the latest developments in the region. The United States has also restricted all its civilian carriers from flying over the Gulf airspace. Iran on Wednesday fired over a dozen ballistic missiles at US bases in Iraq in retaliation to the US strikes at Baghdad International Airport that killed Iran's top military commander Qasem Soleimani on January 3. Directorate General of Civil Aviation: We had held meetings with the concerned Airlines and have sensitized them to remain vigilant and take all precautions https://t.co/8g91GFYBI8 — ANI (@ANI) January 8, 2020 × Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif said that Tehran does not seek escalation or war but will defend itself against any form of aggression. "Iran took and concluded proportionate measures in self-defence under Article 51 of UN Charter targeting base from which cowardly armed attack against our citizens & senior officials were launched," Zarif said today. Meanwhile, a Ukranian airplane - a Boeing 737 plane, today crashed near Tehran's primary airport shortly after taking off for Kiev. The plane, which belonged to Ukraine International Airlines, crashed shortly after taking off Iran's capital city's Imam Khomeini airport due to some technical snag. All passengers on board, as many as 170, have been killed in the air crash.

Amid escalating tension, Indian air carriers told to avoid airspace of Iran, Iran and Gulf region

A leaked draft letter from a top US general overseeing the fight against ISIS in Iraq to the Iraqi military sparked concerns that the US was preparing to withdraw troops from the country. #US #Pentagon #USleakedletter

Confusion after US military letter talks of troop withdrawal

<p>Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States&nbsp;even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today. The Iranian general will be buried later on Tuesday.</p>

<p><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<ul>
	<li>Iran’s Quds Force Commander, Qasem Soleimani will be buried in his hometown, Kerman.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The three-day national funeral procession in Iran and Iraq will end today.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised "severe revenge".<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mourners shouted ‘revenge’ during the national funeral procession observed in Soleimani’s death.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Addressing the crowd during a funeral procession on Monday, Soleimani’s daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, called&nbsp;US President ‘Crazy Trump and added, "Don’t think everything is over",&nbsp;and promised "dark days"&nbsp;for the US in the days ahead.&nbsp;<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The Tehran government said it will roll back from the international nuclear accord.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Saudi’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal, said,&nbsp;“It is certainly a very dangerous moment."<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>President Donald Trump tweeted, "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" over Iran’s announcement on Uranium extraction.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!</p>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1214197038063243266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<ul>
	<li>Amid rising global tensions, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and called for ‘maximum restraint’.</li>
</ul>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown</strong></p>

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<p><br />
Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-criticises-russia-china-at-un-over-failure-to-condemn-baghdad-embassy-attack-272600">US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack</a></p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani</a></p>

<p>Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reaches-out-to-countries-in-west-asia-amid-us-iran-tensions-272367">India reaches out to countries in West Asia amid US-Iran tensions</a></p>

<p><em>(With Inputs from AFP)</em></p>


Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today.

Post-Soleimani’s death, tensions have been escalating between Iran and the United States even as the funeral procession of slain Iran General Soleimani began in his hometown Kerman today. The Iranian general will be buried later on Tuesday. Iran’s Quds Force Commander, Qasem Soleimani will be buried in his hometown, Kerman. The three-day national funeral procession in Iran and Iraq will end today. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised "severe revenge". Mourners shouted ‘revenge’ during the national funeral procession observed in Soleimani’s death. Addressing the crowd during a funeral procession on Monday, Soleimani’s daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, called US President ‘Crazy Trump and added, "Don’t think everything is over", and promised "dark days" for the US in the days ahead. The Tehran government said it will roll back from the international nuclear accord. Saudi’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal, said, “It is certainly a very dangerous moment." President Donald Trump tweeted, "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" over Iran’s announcement on Uranium extraction. IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2020 × Amid rising global tensions, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and called for ‘maximum restraint’. Watch: Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown × Read More: US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack Read More: Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani Read More: India reaches out to countries in West Asia amid US-Iran tensions (With Inputs from AFP)

Latest updates on Iran general Qasem Soleimani's killing: Funeral procession begins in Kerman

<p>Just hours after a leaked letter appeared in the media informing about American military pullout from Iraq, US defence secretary Mark Esper dismissed the report asserting that the country had no such plans.</p>

<p>"There's been no decision whatsoever to leave Iraq," Esper said, adding, "I don't know what that letter is ... We're trying to find out where that's coming from, what that is. But there's been no decision made to leave Iraq. Period."</p>

<p><img alt="Mark Esper's Letter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2c22cb99-6ae3-4757-b4bf-f7219d2c70eb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2820%29_3.jpg" /><br />
[A leaked draft letter addressed to the Iraqi defence ministry's combined joint operations Baghdad bearing the name of US General William Seely. (Courtesy: WION)]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">Also Read: Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani</a></p>

<p>The United States has over 5,000 troops positioned in Iraq.</p>

<p>"That letter is inconsistent with where we are right now," Esper added.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/confusion-after-us-military-letter-talks-of-troop-withdrawal-272601/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>In the leaked letter Brigadier General William Seely was seen to be indicating US troop pullout from Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/crazy-trump-dont-think-that-everything-is-over-with-my-fathers-martyrdom-zeinab-soleimani-daughter-of-qassem-soleimani-272535">In Pics: Crazy Trump, don't think that everything is over, says Zeinab, daughter of Qasem Soleimani</a></p>

<p>"In deference to the sovereignty of the Republic of Iraq, and as requested by the Iraqi Parliament and the Prime Minister, CJTF-OIR will be repositioning forces over the course of the coming days and weeks to prepare for onward movement,"<br />
William Seely wrote in the letter.</p>

<p>"We respect your sovereign decision to order our departure," the letter added.</p>

<p>However, Pentagon Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley said the letter was only a "draft". Milley added that the letter was "poorly worded" terming it "honest mistake" and an "unsigned draft".</p>

<p>"This was a mistake," Milley said. "It shouldn't have been sent."</p>

<p>The letter comes as Iraq on Sunday voted for the expulsion of US troops amid assassination of Iran General Sulemani. The resolution passed by a special session of the Iraqi parliament said the government should cancel its request for&nbsp;assistance from a US-led coalition. Although the motion is non-binding but it is likely to go ahead with Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi himself advocating US troop pullout from the country.</p>

<p>After the Iraqi Parliament's decision, President Trump warned he would impose "very big sanctions" on Iraq if the country moved to expel US troops.</p>

<p>"If they do ask us to leave -- if we don't do it in a very friendly basis -- we will charge them sanctions like they've never seen before," Trump said.&nbsp;</p>


Just hours after a leaked letter appeared in the media informing about American military pullout from Iraq, US defence secretary Mark Esper dismissed the report asserting that the country had no such plans.

Just hours after a leaked letter appeared in the media informing about American military pullout from Iraq, US defence secretary Mark Esper dismissed the report asserting that the country had no such plans. "There's been no decision whatsoever to leave Iraq," Esper said, adding, "I don't know what that letter is ... We're trying to find out where that's coming from, what that is. But there's been no decision made to leave Iraq. Period." [A leaked draft letter addressed to the Iraqi defence ministry's combined joint operations Baghdad bearing the name of US General William Seely. (Courtesy: WION)] Also Read: Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani The United States has over 5,000 troops positioned in Iraq. "That letter is inconsistent with where we are right now," Esper added. Watch Video: In the leaked letter Brigadier General William Seely was seen to be indicating US troop pullout from Iraq. In Pics: Crazy Trump, don't think that everything is over, says Zeinab, daughter of Qasem Soleimani "In deference to the sovereignty of the Republic of Iraq, and as requested by the Iraqi Parliament and the Prime Minister, CJTF-OIR will be repositioning forces over the course of the coming days and weeks to prepare for onward movement," William Seely wrote in the letter. "We respect your sovereign decision to order our departure," the letter added. However, Pentagon Joint Chiefs Chairman Mark Milley said the letter was only a "draft". Milley added that the letter was "poorly worded" terming it "honest mistake" and an "unsigned draft". "This was a mistake," Milley said. "It shouldn't have been sent." The letter comes as Iraq on Sunday voted for the expulsion of US troops amid assassination of Iran General Sulemani. The resolution passed by a special session of the Iraqi parliament said the government should cancel its request for assistance from a US-led coalition. Although the motion is non-binding but it is likely to go ahead with Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi himself advocating US troop pullout from the country. After the Iraqi Parliament's decision, President Trump warned he would impose "very big sanctions" on Iraq if the country moved to expel US troops. "If they do ask us to leave -- if we don't do it in a very friendly basis -- we will charge them sanctions like they've never seen before," Trump said.

US Defense chief Esper denies troop pullout from Iraq after leaked letter confusion

What is about President Donald Trump that people even hate him outside Iraq or Iran. Trump is turning out to be the most hated person according to two independent surveys of Germany. #DonaldTrump #Trump #MostHatedPerson

Fineprint: President Donald Trump world's most dangerous man

<p>The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week.</p>

<p>"Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defense-chief-esper-denies-us-troop-pullout-from-iraq-after-leaked-letter-confusion-272596">Also Read: Defense chief Esper denies US troop pullout from Iraq after leaked letter confusion</a></p>

<p>The US said supporting the &nbsp;1961 Vienna convention did not need to be "controversial or warranted courage."</p>

<p>Last week thousands of protesters and militia fighters demonstrated and then stormed the US embassy in Iraq over a US airstrike in which a US citizen was killed. Qais al-Khazali, leader of the Iranian-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia, and many other senior militia leaders were among the protesters.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/qassem-soleimani-funeral-national-mourning-to-last-for-three-days-in-honour-of-west-asias-and-middle-easts-most-powerful-man-272233">In Pics: How people in Iraq mourn death of Qasem Soleimani</a></p>

<p>President Donald Trump blamed Iran for "orchestrating" the attack on the US embassy in Baghdad.</p>

<p>"Iran killed an American contractor, wounding many. We strongly responded, and always will. Now Iran is orchestrating an attack on the US Embassy in Iraq. They will be held fully responsible," the US president said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iraqs-parliament-votes-to-expel-all-5000-us-troops-272384/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

<p>Last Friday, amid heightened tensions, the United States assassinated Iran's general Sulemani plunging the region into a crisis.</p>

<p>After the US condemnation of China and Russia claimed that it was not possible to disregard the US drone attack which killed Soleiman.</p>

<p>"The statement was nearly ready, and it was agreed upon, at least with us, with the US," &nbsp;Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said, however, he added that after the drone attack "it wasn't possible to disregard the whole context."</p>

<p>UN ambassador Zhang Jun dismissed the US statement, asserting that it "firmly supports the protection of the safety of foreign missions in accordance with international law."</p>

<p>"The US unilateral military action has led to drastic changes in (the) regional situation," Zhang Jun said.</p>

<p>Jun added that UNSC should reflect the latest developments of the situation and help prevent escalation of tensions.</p>


The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week. "Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement.

The United States on Monday hit out at China and Russia over its reported failure to condemn the Baghdad embassy attack last week. "Not allowing the United Nations Security Council to issue the most basic of statements underscoring the inviolability of diplomatic and consular premises once again calls the council's credibility into question," the United States said in a statement. Also Read: Defense chief Esper denies US troop pullout from Iraq after leaked letter confusion The US said supporting the 1961 Vienna convention did not need to be "controversial or warranted courage." Last week thousands of protesters and militia fighters demonstrated and then stormed the US embassy in Iraq over a US airstrike in which a US citizen was killed. Qais al-Khazali, leader of the Iranian-backed Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia, and many other senior militia leaders were among the protesters. In Pics: How people in Iraq mourn death of Qasem Soleimani President Donald Trump blamed Iran for "orchestrating" the attack on the US embassy in Baghdad. "Iran killed an American contractor, wounding many. We strongly responded, and always will. Now Iran is orchestrating an attack on the US Embassy in Iraq. They will be held fully responsible," the US president said. Watch Video: Last Friday, amid heightened tensions, the United States assassinated Iran's general Sulemani plunging the region into a crisis. After the US condemnation of China and Russia claimed that it was not possible to disregard the US drone attack which killed Soleiman. "The statement was nearly ready, and it was agreed upon, at least with us, with the US," Russian ambassador to the UN Vassily Nebenzia said, however, he added that after the drone attack "it wasn't possible to disregard the whole context." UN ambassador Zhang Jun dismissed the US statement, asserting that it "firmly supports the protection of the safety of foreign missions in accordance with international law." "The US unilateral military action has led to drastic changes in (the) regional situation," Zhang Jun said. Jun added that UNSC should reflect the latest developments of the situation and help prevent escalation of tensions.

US criticises Russia, China at UN over failure to condemn Baghdad embassy attack

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - January 06, 2020

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Qureshi said he had discussed the regional situation with the&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;ministers of&nbsp;Iran, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Qureshi said he feared Soleimani's death could trigger an&nbsp;upsurge in sectarian tensions, including in Afghanistan.</p>

<p>"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.</p>


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

Iraq's parliament has voted in favour of a resolution to remove foreign troops from the country, in response to the US drone attack that killed top Iranian General Qassem Soleimani.

Iraq's parliament votes to expel all 5,000 US troops

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

Iraq's parliament on January 5 backed Prime Minister's suggestion, which directs all foreign troops to be ordered out. #WION #Iraq #US

Iraq Parliament votes to expel US troops

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

Iran's supreme leader appointed Esmail Qaani as the new head of the Foreign Operations arm of the Revolutionary Guard after its commander Qasem Soleimani, was killed on Friday in a US attack on Baghdad Airport. #EsmailQaani #QasemSoleimani #IranRevolutionaryGuard #US #WION

Who is 'Esmail Qaani' named as Soleimani's successor?

<p>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>.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>"This is only small part of Iran's cyber ability !" another caption on the page read in white text on a black background.</p>

<p>The killing of Soleimani in a drone strike in Iraq early Friday brought a furious vow of revenge from Tehran.</p>

<p>Described as the second most powerful man in Iran, Soleimani oversaw wide-ranging interventions in regional power struggles.</p>

<p>Trump has said Soleimani was planning an "imminent" attack on US personnel in Baghdad.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">"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></p>
— Angelo Carusone (@GoAngelo) <a href="https://twitter.com/GoAngelo/status/1212938627279466503?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


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"

<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">-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;<br />
<br />
-Targeting cultural sites is a WAR CRIME;<br />
<br />
-Whether kicking or screaming, end of US malign presence in West Asia has begun.</p>
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1213742809095770113?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">....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.....</p>
— 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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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">....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!</p>
— 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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<p>Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump said in a tweet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Iran's army chief General Abdolrahim Mousavi also said on Sunday that US lacked the "courage" to initiate a conflict.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I doubt they have the courage to initiate," Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi said, reported by state news agency IRNA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier today, thousands of mourners cried, beat their chests as they paid respect to&nbsp;Soleimani after his last remains reached Iran.</p>

<p>In the southwestern city of Ahvaz, men and women shouted "Death to America" and carried portraits of the commander.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Earlier, Iran's supreme commander Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed of "severe revenge" after the killing of former commander.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, Trump said Iran is talking very boldly about targetting "US assets" after the killing of top commander Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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....</p>
— 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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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">....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.....</p>
— 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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<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">....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!</p>
— 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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<p>"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<br />
protesters. He was already attacking our Embassy, and preparing for additional hits in other locations. Iran has been nothing but problems for many years."</p>

<p>He added that 52 represents the number of US hostages taken by Iran many years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"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<br />
itself, WILL BE HIT VERY FAST AND VERY HARD. The USA wants no more threats!," Trump tweeted.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Yesterday, thousands of people in Iran chanted "Death to America" and called for "revenge" in the funeral procession in honour of late commander.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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;</p>
<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" />
<p><em>&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)</em></p>

<p>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.</p>
<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" />
<p><em>&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)</em></p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&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></p>

<p>Men and women gathered in Mollavi Square with flags in green, white and red, which depicted the blood of "martyrs".</p>
<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" />
<p><em>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; (An Iranian carrying Soleimani's photograph: Photo Credit: Reuters)</em></p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><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></p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>After Soleimani's killing, ties between Washington and Tehran got even more strained and raised concerns of a new war in the Middle East.</p>

<p>Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed "severe revenge" and declared three days of mourning in the Islamic Republic.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Iran "will be hit very fast and very hard," Trump tweeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>(<em>with inputs from agencies</em>)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


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

Qassem Soleimani, the former head of the elite force in Iran was killed in a US airstrike on January 3. 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. US President Donald Trump also said that the General Qasem Soleimani plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now the reign of his terror is over. #Iraq #IraqAirStrike #US #IranGeneral #Soleimani #QasemSoleimani

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