War-ravaged Iraq is now emerging as a prime investment destination for wealthy gulf nations. This is likely to have a major impact on the geopolitical landscape of the gulf region, where the rising spectre of Iran threatens the Arab world. Watch in for more details!

Iraq PM Al-Sudani gearing up for first-ever visit to US | Will Israel-Iran overshadow this visit?

Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target.

Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace.

"Dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran in the direction of Israel over Iraqi airspace," news agency Reuters quoted two security sources in Iraq as saying.

The Iranian Press TV dubbed it as "extensive drone strikes" by the Revolutionary Guards.

The Israeli army said that sirens would blow up in the threatened areas further adding that its defences were well-equipped to tackle them.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-irgc-seizes-israeli-affiliated-vessel-with-indian-nationals-onboard-710873">India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals</a>

<h2>Israel is 'prepared for every scenario,' says Netanyahu</h2>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement saying that Israel was prepared for an attack by Iran further adding that it was ready "for any scenario" as Iran launched dozens of drones.

"In recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively," Netanyahu said in a televised address.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target. Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace.

Iran launched a drone salvo at Israel on Saturday (Apr 13) which the Israeli military said would take hours to reach their target. Iraqi security sources said that dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran toward Israel over Iraqi airspace. "Dozens of drones were spotted flying from Iran in the direction of Israel over Iraqi airspace," news agency Reuters quoted two security sources in Iraq as saying. The Iranian Press TV dubbed it as "extensive drone strikes" by the Revolutionary Guards. The Israeli army said that sirens would blow up in the threatened areas further adding that its defences were well-equipped to tackle them. Also read: India in touch with Iranian authorities to ensure release of Indian nationals Israel is 'prepared for every scenario,' says Netanyahu Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu released a statement saying that Israel was prepared for an attack by Iran further adding that it was ready "for any scenario" as Iran launched dozens of drones. "In recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed; we are ready for any scenario, both defensively and offensively," Netanyahu said in a televised address. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran launches dozens of drones at Israel, PM Netanyahu says country 'prepared for every scenario'

Muslims gathered at Abdul Kader Al-Kilani mosque in central Baghdad for Eid al-Fitr prayers on Wednesday (April 10). Watch in for more details!

Eid al-Fitr: Muslim worshippers attend Eid al-Fitr prayers in Baghdad

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - Russia's foreign minister arrives in China - Israel reduces troops in South Gaza - Netanyahu: One step away from victory - Iraq to send 10 mn litres of fuel to Gaza - India: NIA says 'unprovoked' attack on team - US: Boeing flight loses engine cover - Eclipse watchers hope for clear weather

Eclipse watchers hope for clear weather | Iraq to send 10 mn litres of fuel to Gaza

Iraq govt pushing for more investments from Arab neighbours

Gulf nations are testing the waters for possible investment in Iraq. Baghdad which is slowly recovering from years of conflict will be hosting the Arab league summit next year. It is a chance for the country to prove it is now safe, and in control.

Will Iraq pass the Gulf investment test?

Islamic State terrorists have "executed" eight Syrian soldiers after an ambush, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday (March 31). WION could not immediately ascertain the nature of this ambush.&nbsp;

The war monitor also reported that the jihadists had killed 14 troops in recent days.

The Islamic State took over large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014 and proclaimed a "caliphate" in the region&nbsp;that led to a reign of terror.&nbsp;

The territorial defeat of the ISIS was complete in 2019. But its remnants continue to execute deadly attacks and their influence runs deep in the vast Badia desert, from the outskirts of Damascus to the Iraqi border.&nbsp;

These IS cells have been targeting pro-government forces and Kurdish-led fighters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-isis-deploys-cryptocurrency-nato-grade-weapons-to-revive-its-reign-of-terror-625052">Explained: ISIS deploys cryptocurrency, NATO-grade weapons to revive its reign of terror</a>

IS cells "executed eight members of the regime forces... including an officer" after the ambush this week in the desert in eastern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Meanwhile, a bomb exploded in a shopping area in a northern Syrian city held by pro-Turkish forces on Sunday, killing eight people and wounding about two dozen people.&nbsp;

The Observatory said that "eight people were killed and 23 others wounded" when "a car bomb exploded in the middle of a popular market".

Also watch |&nbsp;ISIS' Afghanistan-based affiliate emerging as a global menace

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Islamic State jihadists also killed six other soldiers "after they were taken prisoner" in a separate ambush along Sukhna and Palmyra in Homs province.

<h2>Over 200 soldiers, affiliated fighters killed in ISIS attacks</h2>

According to the observatory, more than 200 soldiers and affiliated fighters have ben killed since the start of this year in the ambushes in the Syrian desert including in Deir Ezzor, Homs and Raqqa provinces, the observatory said.

These attacks have killed at least 37 civilians during the same period. The government forces have killed 24 IS members, according to the observatory.

The observatory said that with the recent escalation, the Islamic State is seeking to "show it is able to launch attacks despite having lost" its territorial control five years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State terrorists have "executed" eight Syrian soldiers after an ambush, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday (March 31). WION could not immediately ascertain the nature of this ambush.

Islamic State terrorists have "executed" eight Syrian soldiers after an ambush, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday (March 31). WION could not immediately ascertain the nature of this ambush. The war monitor also reported that the jihadists had killed 14 troops in recent days. The Islamic State took over large parts of Iraq and Syria in 2014 and proclaimed a "caliphate" in the region that led to a reign of terror. The territorial defeat of the ISIS was complete in 2019. But its remnants continue to execute deadly attacks and their influence runs deep in the vast Badia desert, from the outskirts of Damascus to the Iraqi border. These IS cells have been targeting pro-government forces and Kurdish-led fighters. Also read | Explained: ISIS deploys cryptocurrency, NATO-grade weapons to revive its reign of terror IS cells "executed eight members of the regime forces... including an officer" after the ambush this week in the desert in eastern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Meanwhile, a bomb exploded in a shopping area in a northern Syrian city held by pro-Turkish forces on Sunday, killing eight people and wounding about two dozen people. The Observatory said that "eight people were killed and 23 others wounded" when "a car bomb exploded in the middle of a popular market". Also watch | ISIS' Afghanistan-based affiliate emerging as a global menace × Islamic State jihadists also killed six other soldiers "after they were taken prisoner" in a separate ambush along Sukhna and Palmyra in Homs province. Over 200 soldiers, affiliated fighters killed in ISIS attacks According to the observatory, more than 200 soldiers and affiliated fighters have ben killed since the start of this year in the ambushes in the Syrian desert including in Deir Ezzor, Homs and Raqqa provinces, the observatory said. These attacks have killed at least 37 civilians during the same period. The government forces have killed 24 IS members, according to the observatory. The observatory said that with the recent escalation, the Islamic State is seeking to "show it is able to launch attacks despite having lost" its territorial control five years ago. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State 'executes' eight Syrian soldiers in desert ambush, reports war monitor

After years of conflict with the Islamic state, security officials in Iraq are fighting an undeclared war against a new enemy - drugs. In our next story, we tell you the story of Iraq. How it went from a drug-free country to a narcotics hub.

Leftover from US invasion: Iraq's drug problem

Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall have wreaked havoc in the Iraqi city of Dohuk. Authorities have reported at least about two casualties due to the heavy flooding that has swept the entire city in the early hours of Tuesday. Watch to know more!

Iraq: 2 victims washed away by floodwaters in Dohuk

Here we bring to you WION's climate tracker that showcases climate stories from across the globe: Every major global climate record was broken last year, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) said on Tuesday, with its chief voicing particular concern about ocean heat and shrinking sea ice. Flash floods caused by heavy rainfall have wreaked havoc in the Iraqi city of Dohuk. Authorities have reported at least about two casualties due to the heavy flooding that has swept the entire city in the early hours of Tuesday. Watch to know more!

UN 'red alert' for planet earth | Flash floods wreak havoc in Iraqi city

An Iraqi television show that was banned by Saddam Hussein is back on screens after a 27 years Hiatus. The program had been banned by Saddam Hussein for its gritty portrayal of Life under sanctions. Watch to know more!

Wahiba's World: Banned TV drama that broke Iraq's taboos returns after 27 years

This 58-year-old Iraqi man is often seen strolling alone near the Tigris river. Closely inspecting the pebbels lying on the banks, he hopes to uncover precious gems among the trail to add to his Jewellery catalogue. Watch to know more!

Story of Iraqi gem hunter who transforms stones into jewelry

Turkey's top Diplomat was in Baghdad for high-level meetings ahead of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's expected visit next month. it also comes ahead of a potential Turkish offensive against a Kurdish militant group that maintains bases in Iraq.

Turkiye's top diplomat in Baghdad for high level meetings

Turkey's top diplomat in Baghdad for high-level meetings

The whole world is currently dealing with the issue of waste management and a female Iraqi engineer in Baghdad has offered a remarkable solution to battle the concerning issue. Watch to know more!

Iraqi woman's ingenious solution for waste management

Officials in the South African city of Cape Town launched an investigation on Monday (Feb 19) to look for the source of the foul stench which has blanketed parts of the port city.&nbsp;

The stench which covered parts of Cape Town prompted the officials to inspect sewage facilities for leaks and an environmental health team was activated before the source of the smell was traced back to a ship carrying 19,000 cows from Brazil to Iraq.

The city is expected to get some respite from the foul smell soon, as per city authorities. Zahid Badroodien, an official in the mayor’s office in charge of water and sanitation took to X and said that investigators confirmed that the source of the smell “across the city is a ship in the harbour”. &nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gifts-russian-made-car-to-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-violates-un-sanction-691948">Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions</a>

<h2>What we know about the ship</h2>

He added that the ship, Al Kuwait, arrived on Sunday (Feb 18) and left the port on Monday (Feb 19) night. The ship’s departure may bring some relief to the people who had a smelly start to the week.&nbsp;

A resident who works near the harbour told the BBC that the smell was “overwhelming” and they were forced to keep the windows of their car closed despite it being a hot day.&nbsp;

<h2>Incident draws ire of animal welfare groups, government</h2>

Addressing the incident, the National Council of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) reiterated its “firm stance against the live export of animals by sea”, in a statement, on Monday.&nbsp;A team, including an NSPCA veterinary consultant, went aboard the vessel to assess the welfare of the animals.

“This smell is indicative of the awful conditions the animals endure, having already spent 2½ weeks on board, with a build-up of faeces and ammonia. The stench onboard is unimaginable, yet the animals face this every single day,” said the NSPCA.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/16000-sheep-and-cattle-stuck-on-board-export-ship-since-jan-5-after-red-sea-turn-back-686083">16,000 sheep and cattle stuck on ship in sweltering heat since Jan 5 after Red Sea turn-back</a>

South Africa’s Democratic Alliance party which governs Cape Town also condemned the transport of live cattle.&nbsp;

“Live export, as evidenced by this situation, exposes animals to perilous conditions such as dangerous levels of ammonia, rough seas, extreme heat stress, injuries, dirty environments, exhaustion, and even death,” said the political party, in a statement.&nbsp;

The incident also took place weeks after a ship carrying around 14,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle was stuck off the coast of Australia for nearly a month in sweltering heat after it was forced to abandon a trip through the Red Sea amid attacks from Yemen-based Houthi rebels.&nbsp;

At the time, animal welfare advocates were left appalled, bringing Australia’s live animal export industry under scrutiny.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Officials in the South African city of Cape Town launched an investigation on Monday (Feb 19) to look for the source of the foul stench which has blanketed parts of the port city.

Officials in the South African city of Cape Town launched an investigation on Monday (Feb 19) to look for the source of the foul stench which has blanketed parts of the port city. The stench which covered parts of Cape Town prompted the officials to inspect sewage facilities for leaks and an environmental health team was activated before the source of the smell was traced back to a ship carrying 19,000 cows from Brazil to Iraq. The city is expected to get some respite from the foul smell soon, as per city authorities. Zahid Badroodien, an official in the mayor’s office in charge of water and sanitation took to X and said that investigators confirmed that the source of the smell “across the city is a ship in the harbour”. Also Read | Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions What we know about the ship He added that the ship, Al Kuwait, arrived on Sunday (Feb 18) and left the port on Monday (Feb 19) night. The ship’s departure may bring some relief to the people who had a smelly start to the week. A resident who works near the harbour told the BBC that the smell was “overwhelming” and they were forced to keep the windows of their car closed despite it being a hot day. Incident draws ire of animal welfare groups, government Addressing the incident, the National Council of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) reiterated its “firm stance against the live export of animals by sea”, in a statement, on Monday. A team, including an NSPCA veterinary consultant, went aboard the vessel to assess the welfare of the animals. “This smell is indicative of the awful conditions the animals endure, having already spent 2½ weeks on board, with a build-up of faeces and ammonia. The stench onboard is unimaginable, yet the animals face this every single day,” said the NSPCA. Also Read | 16,000 sheep and cattle stuck on ship in sweltering heat since Jan 5 after Red Sea turn-back South Africa’s Democratic Alliance party which governs Cape Town also condemned the transport of live cattle. “Live export, as evidenced by this situation, exposes animals to perilous conditions such as dangerous levels of ammonia, rough seas, extreme heat stress, injuries, dirty environments, exhaustion, and even death,” said the political party, in a statement. The incident also took place weeks after a ship carrying around 14,000 sheep and 2,000 cattle was stuck off the coast of Australia for nearly a month in sweltering heat after it was forced to abandon a trip through the Red Sea amid attacks from Yemen-based Houthi rebels. At the time, animal welfare advocates were left appalled, bringing Australia’s live animal export industry under scrutiny. (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa's Cape Town hit by ‘unimaginable’ stench due to ship carrying 19,000 cattle

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan.

Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran.

It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension,"&nbsp;a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters.

<h2>Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport</h2>

Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0zwyumly2RUq4PD1A0sDj8" data-ved="2ahUKEwjD0q2c6rSEAxW3xDgGHU17DooQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-attacked-two-major-iranian-pipelines-disrupted-supply-suggests-report-691162" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report</a>

The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport.

"The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said.

<h2>Stance of Iraqi government</h2>

The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

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Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters.

<h2>US military presence in Iraq</h2>

The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’

They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18).

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan. Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran. It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension," a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters. Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters. Also read: Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport. "The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said. Stance of Iraqi government The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers. Watch: Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad × Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters. US military presence in Iraq The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’ They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Quds chief visited Iraq and asked allied militias to halt attacks on US: Report

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

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

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

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

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

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

Iraq has issued a stern warning to the U.S. in response to an airstrike in Baghdad. Senior commander Abu Baqir al-Saadi of Kataib Hezbollah died in a drone strike. The commander of the pro-Iran militia group was linked to an attack on a US base in Jordan last week.

Iraq issues stern warning to the US in response to an airstrike in Baghdad

Repeated US&nbsp;strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

The US&nbsp;military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops.

Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict."

The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group.

Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US&nbsp;forces stationed in the region.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday.

Repeated US strikes against Iran-backed armed groups in Iraq are pushing the government to end the mission of the US-led coalition in the country, the prime minister's military spokesman Yahya Rasool said on Thursday. The US military said a strike on Wednesday killed a commander from Kataib Hezbollah, an Iran-backed armed group in Iraq that the Pentagon has blamed for attacking its troops. Rasool said in a statement that the US-led coalition "has become a factor for instability and threatens to entangle Iraq in the cycle of conflict." The US-led international military coalition in Iraq was set up to fight Islamic State. The United States has 2,500 troops in Iraq, advising and assisting local forces to prevent a resurgence of the group. Since the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza began in October, Iraq and Syria have witnessed almost daily tit-for-tat attacks between hardline Iran-backed armed groups and US forces stationed in the region.

American strikes pushing government to end US-led coalition's mission: Iraq

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

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

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

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

Moscow said the US President Joe Biden is 'boosting' his presidential campaign with strikes in Iraq and Syria. In the United States, meanwhile, Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley has requested Secret Service protection amid alleged threat to her life.

Elsewhere, the election campaign for Pakistan National Assembly is in its last leg despite Army's dominance in the country's politics.&nbsp;

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Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan but an attempt to boost his image.

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Buckingham Palace said on Monday (Feb 5) that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer and will postpone public-facing duties while undergoing treatment. The palace said that the king "remains wholly positive" and "looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible".&nbsp;

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Republican leader Nikki Haley has applied for Secret Service protection amid the increased threats she has been receiving on the campaign trail and days after another swatting incident.&nbsp;

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A recent study suggests that hurricanes, fueled by the escalating climate crisis, have become so potent that a new classification, "Category 6," should be added to the conventional 1 to 5 scale. Researchers assert that the intensification of storms, attributed to global heating and rising ocean temperatures, warrants acknowledgment of a more extreme category.

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Pep Guardiola said Phil Foden is enjoying his best season at Manchester City after the England international's hat-trick beat Brentford 3-1 on Monday (Feb 5) to leave the Premier League's top three separated by just two points.

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We finally know what to expect from Taylor Swift’s upcoming album that she teased during last night’s Grammy Awards. As Taylor went on to pick a Grammy on the stage at the 66th Grammy Awards, she revealed that new album is on the way and it will be called&nbsp;The Tortured Poets Department.&nbsp;She then went backstage after picking the award and posted on social media the release date for the same – April 19.&nbsp;

Moscow said the US President Joe Biden is 'boosting' his presidential campaign with strikes in Iraq and Syria. In the United States, meanwhile, Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley has requested Secret Service protection amid alleged threat to her life.

Moscow said the US President Joe Biden is 'boosting' his presidential campaign with strikes in Iraq and Syria. In the United States, meanwhile, Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley has requested Secret Service protection amid alleged threat to her life. Elsewhere, the election campaign for Pakistan National Assembly is in its last leg despite Army's dominance in the country's politics. Click here to read more: Moscow says Biden 'boosting' his presidential campaign with Syria, Iraq strikes Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan but an attempt to boost his image. King Charles III diagnosed with cancer, to postpone public-facing duties: Buckingham Palace Buckingham Palace said on Monday (Feb 5) that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer and will postpone public-facing duties while undergoing treatment. The palace said that the king "remains wholly positive" and "looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible". Nikki Haley requests Secret Service protection amid increase in threats on campaign trail Republican leader Nikki Haley has applied for Secret Service protection amid the increased threats she has been receiving on the campaign trail and days after another swatting incident. Pakistan Elections 2024: Transgender candidates campaign door-to-door × Five categories not enough, hurricanes 'faster than Ferrari' push scientists to propose new intensity scale A recent study suggests that hurricanes, fueled by the escalating climate crisis, have become so potent that a new classification, "Category 6," should be added to the conventional 1 to 5 scale. Researchers assert that the intensification of storms, attributed to global heating and rising ocean temperatures, warrants acknowledgment of a more extreme category. Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top Pep Guardiola said Phil Foden is enjoying his best season at Manchester City after the England international's hat-trick beat Brentford 3-1 on Monday (Feb 5) to leave the Premier League's top three separated by just two points. Taylor Swift teases tracklist for upcoming album The Tortured Poets Department We finally know what to expect from Taylor Swift’s upcoming album that she teased during last night’s Grammy Awards. As Taylor went on to pick a Grammy on the stage at the 66th Grammy Awards, she revealed that new album is on the way and it will be called The Tortured Poets Department. She then went backstage after picking the award and posted on social media the release date for the same – April 19.

Morning brief: Moscow slams Biden for Iraq and Syria strikes; King Charles III diagnosed with cancer; and more

An American base in eastern Syria was attacked by drones. Six U.S-allied Kurdish fighters have been killed. The drone attack came in response to what happened over the weekend. The U.S. and UK launched a wave of strikes on Iran-backed targets.

Gravitas | US revenge in West Asia: US bombs parts of Yemen, Iraq & Syria

Former US president Donald Trump has again accused Israel of being a part of the plan to kill Iran's top Commander Qassem Soleimani back in early 2020. Qassem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike in Iraq. Watch to know more!

Israel a part of Qassem Soleimani killing plot ?

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

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

US and UK have launched retaliatory airstrikes against Iran-linked militia in Iraq and Syria. Iran has condemned US response in Syria and Iraq. Watch to know more!

Red Sea Crisis: US and UK start retaliation strike over Red Sea attacks

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

Iran condemns US retaliation strike in Syria & Iraq

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