Nepal on Thursday expressed concern over recent development in the middle eastern region which hosts about a million of its citizens. 
 
Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has released a statement expressing concern over the recent development in West Asia after Iranian General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-missile-attack-news-solemanis-killing-was-american-justice-says-trump-at-campaign-rally-in-ohio-273302">Qasem Soleimani</a> was killed in a US drone strike near <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-boris-johnson-calls-for-end-to-hostilities-with-us-in-call-to-irans-rouhani-273248">Baghdad International Airport</a>. 
 
Killing of the Iranian General on Friday in the drone strike last week in Iraq escalated tensions between Iran and the United States. 
 
Iran had launched strikes against Iraqi bases where US troops are stationed on Wednesday. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ejaz-lakdawala-a-former-member-of-dawood-ibrahims-gang-arrested-in-patna-by-mumbai-police-273266">Kathmandu</a> has asked parties in the region to exercise restraints from taking measures and actions that contribute to the further escalation of tensions. 
 
"The Government of Nepal is following with serious concern the recent developments in the West Asian region. The region hosts a large number of Nepali migrant workers and therefore security and safety of our people in the region become a matter of utmost priority for Nepal," the release from Foreign Ministry states. 
 
"We call upon all sides to exercise restraints from taking measures and actions that contribute to the escalation of tension and endanger peace and stability in the region. It has been a principled position of Nepal that all disputes and differences must be resolved through peaceful means," the release further adds. 
 
The MoFA on Thursday also held a separate meeting with stakeholders and officials from various concerning ministry and discussed measures to be adopted if the condition worsens. It has decided to form an Inbound Coordination Committee to watch on the condition there and take actions as needed for the security of the Nepali migrant workers.

Nepal on Thursday expressed concern over recent development in the middle eastern region which hosts about a million of its citizens. Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has released a statement expressing concern over the recent development in West Asia after Iranian General Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport.

Nepal on Thursday expressed concern over recent development in the middle eastern region which hosts about a million of its citizens. Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) has released a statement expressing concern over the recent development in West Asia after Iranian General Qasem Soleimani was killed in a US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport. Killing of the Iranian General on Friday in the drone strike last week in Iraq escalated tensions between Iran and the United States. Iran had launched strikes against Iraqi bases where US troops are stationed on Wednesday. Kathmandu has asked parties in the region to exercise restraints from taking measures and actions that contribute to the further escalation of tensions. "The Government of Nepal is following with serious concern the recent developments in the West Asian region. The region hosts a large number of Nepali migrant workers and therefore security and safety of our people in the region become a matter of utmost priority for Nepal," the release from Foreign Ministry states. "We call upon all sides to exercise restraints from taking measures and actions that contribute to the escalation of tension and endanger peace and stability in the region. It has been a principled position of Nepal that all disputes and differences must be resolved through peaceful means," the release further adds. The MoFA on Thursday also held a separate meeting with stakeholders and officials from various concerning ministry and discussed measures to be adopted if the condition worsens. It has decided to form an Inbound Coordination Committee to watch on the condition there and take actions as needed for the security of the Nepali migrant workers.

Nepal concerned over recent development in Middle East after Soleimani's killing

By Sarah Burns

To many observers, President Donald Trump’s decision to kill a senior Iranian general is yet another example of his unique impetuousness and determination to go it alone in his foreign policy. Congress has begun to take steps to reel in Trump’s independence.

There are important similarities between Trump’s action and the decision by President Barack Obama to attack Libya in 2011.

Both acted unilaterally without much apparent concern for Congress’ role in military actions, a topic I discuss in my recent book, “The Politics of War Powers.”

But there are some pretty significant differences, too.

Congressional power

The Constitution reserves for Congress the power to declare war. However, after World War II, several presidents – including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon – initiated military operations without congressional approval. They claimed that they could take military action short of actual war through their constitutional capacity as commander-in-chief of the military. Often they also said they needed to support UN or NATO allies who were using force.

By 1973, Congress wanted to reclaim its authority. Over President Nixon’s veto, bipartisan supermajorities passed the War Powers Resolution, requiring presidents to get congressional permission in advance of military action that goes beyond defending against an actual attack.

There are two loopholes, though: If the president does take unilateral action, he must inform Congress within 48 hours. And the president can initiate and carry out military operations for up to 90 days even without congressional approval.

Obama attacks Libya and Congress wags a finger 
 
In 2011, the Arab Spring movement saw citizens across North Africa and the Middle East call on authoritarian regimes to become more democratic.

Many leaders in the region responded with violent crackdowns on protests, some of which appeared to violate the protesters’ human rights. Due to the especially violent repression in Libya, the United Nations Security Council authorized countries to take “all necessary measures” to protect the protesters there.

Without informing or consulting Congress, as the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution require, Obama launched airstrikes against Libyan armed forces on March 19, 2011, alongside NATO allies. Two days later, the president formally informed Congress of his action.

Only a few hawkish Republicans supported the president’s unilateral action. Most Republicans criticized the move. Sens. Richard Lugar and Rand Paul decried Obama’s actions as unconstitutional, claiming he had encroached on legislators’ war powers. Michigan Congressman Justin Amash said, “When there is no imminent threat to our country, he cannot launch strikes without authorisation from the American people, through our elected representatives in Congress.”

Some Democrats also criticised Obama’s action. Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich and other liberal Democrats went so far as to file a lawsuit against him, objecting to the use of military force without congressional approval.

Obama’s Cabinet members and the Pentagon coordinated with each other and NATO allies to organise the operation, but the operation took time. As the airstrikes passed the 90-day mark, Obama didn’t follow the War Powers Resolution’s requirement to pull troops out.

Instead, he sent a State Department lawyer, Harold Koh, to Congress to explain that their US&nbsp;military actions didn’t actually amount to the sort of “hostilities” defined by the law.

Koh’s testimony took a certain amount of criticism, but beyond wagging their fingers, senators did nothing to impede or authorize Obama’s actions. The House chastised Obama for failing to notify Congress, but a motion to pull all US&nbsp;forces out of Libyan action failed – with most Democrats choosing not to limit Obama’s unilateral action, even though it encroached on their legislative powers.

Trump’s drone strike 
 
President Trump’s decision to order a lethal drone strike against Iranian Major&nbsp;General&nbsp;Qasem Soleimani on January&nbsp;3 has some similarities. They include both sudden, unilateral action by a president and sharp criticism from his political opponents.

But there are important differences that show how much farther Trump is willing to push the boundaries of his own individual power.

First, with Obama’s action, there was a humanitarian crisis and broad multilateral support. But with Trump’s killing of Soleimani, there was no U.N. resolution calling for Soleimani’s death nor a humanitarian crisis.

Congress had already been worried about Trump taking unilateral military action: In April 2019, Congress tried to invoke the War Powers Resolution to pull U.S. support out of Yemen.

And in December 2019, Congress tried to pass a defense spending bill that limited Trump’s ability to engage militarily with Iran. Missouri Republican Sen. Roy Blunt, along with others, objected to that proposal, however, saying he favoured “flexibility” for the president. That objection won out over Congress asserting its war powers.

When Trump exercised that “flexibility” and ordered Soleimani killed, there was – as with Obama – a great deal of congressional criticism. But this time, it was split along partisan lines.

Republican Sen. Jim Risch from Idaho praised Trump’s “decisive action” and the “successful outcome.” South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham tweeted a threat to the Iranian government saying, “if you want more, you will get more.”

Conversely, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi worried that Trump’s action “risks provoking further dangerous escalation of violence.” Democrats demanded Trump consult with Congress and called on their fellow legislators to reassert their authority under the War Powers Resolution.

The Democratic-controlled House has approved a resolution that would limit Trump’s ability to fight against Iran. It is unlikely to make it through the Republican-controlled Senate.

A new view of presidential power

Trump’s unilateral action stands out from his predecessors’ in part because of his apparent disregard for congressional power.

A week after the killing of Soleimani, Trump’s administration began to formally tell Congress about the strike on Soleimani.

In the meantime, the US President unilaterally decided to send troops to Kuwait. He also claimed that sending a tweet about military force could serve as a formal notification of Congress.

Trump has claimed various authorities for the drone strike, including a 2002 law authorising the president – then George W Bush – to use military force in Iraq.

Trump has also said he acted against Soleimani to stop “imminent and sinister attacks on American diplomats and military personnel,” a justification that isn’t allowed under the War Powers Resolution, which only authorizes a response to an actual attack after it happens.

Public opinion may be a factor

With Congress bitterly divided along partisan lines, it’s clear the majority of senators – Republicans – will have veto power over any congressional effort to check Trump’s actions. If lawmakers do nothing, Congress will have effectively ceded its war powers to the president. If the dispute goes deeper, the Supreme Court would likely avoid getting involved, because it’s a dispute between the other two branches about their respective claims to constitutional powers.

The only remaining check would be a popular opinion, which can rise and fall as national security crises unfold. But Trump’s popularity is unusually stable, leaving him free to act with the confidence that his base won’t abandon him.

The executive branch will continue to determine the course of action with Iran. On January 8, Trump himself told the nation, “As long as I’m president of the United States, Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.” Without congressional restraint, what that means – and how he carries out that promise – rests entirely in Trump’s hands.

(Sarah Burns is Associate Professor of Political Science, Rochester Institute of Technology)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/trump-like-obama-tests-the-limits-of-presidential-war-powers-129528">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Sarah Burns To many observers, President Donald Trump’s decision to kill a senior Iranian general is yet another example of his unique impetuousness and determination to go it alone in his foreign policy.

By Sarah Burns To many observers, President Donald Trump’s decision to kill a senior Iranian general is yet another example of his unique impetuousness and determination to go it alone in his foreign policy. Congress has begun to take steps to reel in Trump’s independence. There are important similarities between Trump’s action and the decision by President Barack Obama to attack Libya in 2011. Both acted unilaterally without much apparent concern for Congress’ role in military actions, a topic I discuss in my recent book, “The Politics of War Powers.” But there are some pretty significant differences, too. Congressional power The Constitution reserves for Congress the power to declare war. However, after World War II, several presidents – including John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon – initiated military operations without congressional approval. They claimed that they could take military action short of actual war through their constitutional capacity as commander-in-chief of the military. Often they also said they needed to support UN or NATO allies who were using force. By 1973, Congress wanted to reclaim its authority. Over President Nixon’s veto, bipartisan supermajorities passed the War Powers Resolution, requiring presidents to get congressional permission in advance of military action that goes beyond defending against an actual attack. There are two loopholes, though: If the president does take unilateral action, he must inform Congress within 48 hours. And the president can initiate and carry out military operations for up to 90 days even without congressional approval. Obama attacks Libya and Congress wags a finger In 2011, the Arab Spring movement saw citizens across North Africa and the Middle East call on authoritarian regimes to become more democratic. Many leaders in the region responded with violent crackdowns on protests, some of which appeared to violate the protesters’ human rights. Due to the especially violent repression in Libya, the United Nations Security Council authorized countries to take “all necessary measures” to protect the protesters there. Without informing or consulting Congress, as the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution require, Obama launched airstrikes against Libyan armed forces on March 19, 2011, alongside NATO allies. Two days later, the president formally informed Congress of his action. Only a few hawkish Republicans supported the president’s unilateral action. Most Republicans criticized the move. Sens. Richard Lugar and Rand Paul decried Obama’s actions as unconstitutional, claiming he had encroached on legislators’ war powers. Michigan Congressman Justin Amash said, “When there is no imminent threat to our country, he cannot launch strikes without authorisation from the American people, through our elected representatives in Congress.” Some Democrats also criticised Obama’s action. Ohio Congressman Dennis Kucinich and other liberal Democrats went so far as to file a lawsuit against him, objecting to the use of military force without congressional approval. Obama’s Cabinet members and the Pentagon coordinated with each other and NATO allies to organise the operation, but the operation took time. As the airstrikes passed the 90-day mark, Obama didn’t follow the War Powers Resolution’s requirement to pull troops out. Instead, he sent a State Department lawyer, Harold Koh, to Congress to explain that their US military actions didn’t actually amount to the sort of “hostilities” defined by the law. Koh’s testimony took a certain amount of criticism, but beyond wagging their fingers, senators did nothing to impede or authorize Obama’s actions. The House chastised Obama for failing to notify Congress, but a motion to pull all US forces out of Libyan action failed – with most Democrats choosing not to limit Obama’s unilateral action, even though it encroached on their legislative powers. Trump’s drone strike President Trump’s decision to order a lethal drone strike against Iranian Major General Qasem Soleimani on January 3 has some similarities. They include both sudden, unilateral action by a president and sharp criticism from his political opponents. But there are important differences that show how much farther Trump is willing to push the boundaries of his own individual power. First, with Obama’s action, there was a humanitarian crisis and broad multilateral support. But with Trump’s killing of Soleimani, there was no U.N. resolution calling for Soleimani’s death nor a humanitarian crisis. Congress had already been worried about Trump taking unilateral military action: In April 2019, Congress tried to invoke the War Powers Resolution to pull U.S. support out of Yemen. And in December 2019, Congress tried to pass a defense spending bill that limited Trump’s ability to engage militarily with Iran. Missouri Republican Sen. Roy Blunt, along with others, objected to that proposal, however, saying he favoured “flexibility” for the president. That objection won out over Congress asserting its war powers. When Trump exercised that “flexibility” and ordered Soleimani killed, there was – as with Obama – a great deal of congressional criticism. But this time, it was split along partisan lines. Republican Sen. Jim Risch from Idaho praised Trump’s “decisive action” and the “successful outcome.” South Carolina Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham tweeted a threat to the Iranian government saying, “if you want more, you will get more.” Conversely, Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi worried that Trump’s action “risks provoking further dangerous escalation of violence.” Democrats demanded Trump consult with Congress and called on their fellow legislators to reassert their authority under the War Powers Resolution. The Democratic-controlled House has approved a resolution that would limit Trump’s ability to fight against Iran. It is unlikely to make it through the Republican-controlled Senate. A new view of presidential power Trump’s unilateral action stands out from his predecessors’ in part because of his apparent disregard for congressional power. A week after the killing of Soleimani, Trump’s administration began to formally tell Congress about the strike on Soleimani. In the meantime, the US President unilaterally decided to send troops to Kuwait. He also claimed that sending a tweet about military force could serve as a formal notification of Congress. Trump has claimed various authorities for the drone strike, including a 2002 law authorising the president – then George W Bush – to use military force in Iraq. Trump has also said he acted against Soleimani to stop “imminent and sinister attacks on American diplomats and military personnel,” a justification that isn’t allowed under the War Powers Resolution, which only authorizes a response to an actual attack after it happens. Public opinion may be a factor With Congress bitterly divided along partisan lines, it’s clear the majority of senators – Republicans – will have veto power over any congressional effort to check Trump’s actions. If lawmakers do nothing, Congress will have effectively ceded its war powers to the president. If the dispute goes deeper, the Supreme Court would likely avoid getting involved, because it’s a dispute between the other two branches about their respective claims to constitutional powers. The only remaining check would be a popular opinion, which can rise and fall as national security crises unfold. But Trump’s popularity is unusually stable, leaving him free to act with the confidence that his base won’t abandon him. The executive branch will continue to determine the course of action with Iran. On January 8, Trump himself told the nation, “As long as I’m president of the United States, Iran will never be allowed to have a nuclear weapon.” Without congressional restraint, what that means – and how he carries out that promise – rests entirely in Trump’s hands. (Sarah Burns is Associate Professor of Political Science, Rochester Institute of Technology) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

US President Donald Trump, like Barack Obama, tests the limits of presidential war powers

From losses in the stock market to a spike in oil markets. The US operation to kill an Iranian General could trigger fresh troubles from India. Palki Sharma tells you how tensions in West Asia could have a major impact on India. #Gravitas #WestAsiaCrisis #SoleimaniKilling

Gravitas: West Asia Crisis — How a conflict would hurt India?

Iran calls its missile strikes on U.S. military assets in Iraq 'a fierce revenge'. Two Iraqi bases were targetted. While the U.S. President Trump says 'All is Well', Iran's revolutionary guards hint at more strikes. Details in this report. #US #Iran #Gravitas #IranMissile #USMilitary

Gravitas: How Iran's missile strikes against US military assets in Iraq unfolded?

Almost a week after the US drone strike killed Iran's most powerful general, Soleimani, the war clouds seem to have receded for now in West Asia. Last night, US President Trump hinted at de-escalation of tensions with Iran. Is the crisis in West Asia truly over? @Palkisu explains. #Gravitas #India #US #Iran

Gravitas: Iran, US pull back from brink of war

As far as the US-Iran conflict is concerned, India has managed a very difficult balancing act. India's ties with the U.S. and Iran are independent of each other. Will this crisis force India to take some tough decisions? This report explores. #Gravitas #US #Iran #India

Gravitas: US vs Iran, India's balancing act

US-Iran conflict is a tricky situation for India. India maintains strong ties with both the US and Iran. This presents India an opportunity to broker peace in West Asia.&nbsp;

Iran has welcomed any initiatives by India to de-escalate tensions.

This means two things for India:&nbsp; One, an opportunity to play a bigger role in West Asia. Two, the ability to protect its own interest.

On WION Edit, we will explore can India play peacemaker?

First, there are over 8 million Indian workers in West Asia. Peace in the region is the top priority for India.

Two, the Chabahar port which is strategically very important. India is the top player there. Iran has now confirmed that China wants a larger role in developing the port. India must not cede ground to China.

Three, the economic impact - rise in oil prices is a major risk for the Indian economy, especially now amid the slowdown.&nbsp;Rice and tea exports from India to Iran have also been hit.

Four, safeguarding strategic interests. India is an old player in West Asia and we have cultural, people to people ties. Now China is pushing aggressively, with its money.

Earlier, Beijing did not pick sides in this conflict. But now it has changed its tune, especially after the US sanctions.

China, Russia and Iran have faced the wrath of American sanctions. A few days ago, these three countries conducted joint navy exercises in the Gulf of Oman, as well as, Indian ocean.&nbsp;

India is the best poised to handle this crisis. India has a historic relationship with Iran and it also shares a strong equation with the US.

India has close, friendly ties with Russia, strategic ties with China, clout in Saudi Arabia and friends in Israel. If there's one neutral peace broker which can de-escalate this situation, it should be India. It's an opportunity that Delhi shouldn't pass.

India's initial reaction to the killing of Qasem Soleimani has been measured and mature. Iran's foreign minister Javed Zarif will visit India next week. This could be a chance to assess the situation from close-quarters.

Recently, the Indian Navy's warships and aircraft were deployed in the Gulf region. This was to secure India's sea-borne trade, reassure Indian merchants and plan response to an emergency

It's good that India is acting to protect its maritime interests, but prevention is always better than cure. India has to step up its role in West Asia.

If India plays an active role in playing the peacemaker in the US-Iran conflict, it will not only earn the goodwill of Iran and the US, but also establish India's prominence in the region.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US-Iran conflict is a tricky situation for India. India maintains strong ties with both the US and Iran. This presents India an opportunity to broker peace in West Asia.

US-Iran conflict is a tricky situation for India. India maintains strong ties with both the US and Iran. This presents India an opportunity to broker peace in West Asia. Iran has welcomed any initiatives by India to de-escalate tensions. This means two things for India: One, an opportunity to play a bigger role in West Asia. Two, the ability to protect its own interest. On WION Edit, we will explore can India play peacemaker? First, there are over 8 million Indian workers in West Asia. Peace in the region is the top priority for India. Two, the Chabahar port which is strategically very important. India is the top player there. Iran has now confirmed that China wants a larger role in developing the port. India must not cede ground to China. Three, the economic impact - rise in oil prices is a major risk for the Indian economy, especially now amid the slowdown. Rice and tea exports from India to Iran have also been hit. Four, safeguarding strategic interests. India is an old player in West Asia and we have cultural, people to people ties. Now China is pushing aggressively, with its money. Earlier, Beijing did not pick sides in this conflict. But now it has changed its tune, especially after the US sanctions. China, Russia and Iran have faced the wrath of American sanctions. A few days ago, these three countries conducted joint navy exercises in the Gulf of Oman, as well as, Indian ocean. India is the best poised to handle this crisis. India has a historic relationship with Iran and it also shares a strong equation with the US. India has close, friendly ties with Russia, strategic ties with China, clout in Saudi Arabia and friends in Israel. If there's one neutral peace broker which can de-escalate this situation, it should be India. It's an opportunity that Delhi shouldn't pass. India's initial reaction to the killing of Qasem Soleimani has been measured and mature. Iran's foreign minister Javed Zarif will visit India next week. This could be a chance to assess the situation from close-quarters. Recently, the Indian Navy's warships and aircraft were deployed in the Gulf region. This was to secure India's sea-borne trade, reassure Indian merchants and plan response to an emergency It's good that India is acting to protect its maritime interests, but prevention is always better than cure. India has to step up its role in West Asia. If India plays an active role in playing the peacemaker in the US-Iran conflict, it will not only earn the goodwill of Iran and the US, but also establish India's prominence in the region. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: US-Iran crisis - can India play peacemaker?

American airstrikes last week killed Iranian Quds Force commander Major-Genral Qasim Soleimani and Iraq's&nbsp;militia commander&nbsp;Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, which drove the entire region into a state of chaos.

Iran on Wednesday&nbsp;retaliated with missile strikes against American positions in Iraq. The Americans announced that there were no casualties after the attack on Al-Asad and Erbil. Here is what we know so far:

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>On January 7, 2020, slain Quds Force commander Qasim Soleimani's body reached his hometown of Kerman in southeastern Iran, where people in tears,&nbsp;clad in black gathered on the streets to pay their last respects to the fallen 'Hero'.&nbsp;Soleimani funeral <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-slain-general-soleimani-laid-to-rest-in-hometown-kerman-272814">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>On January 8, 2020, the General's body was finally buried after at least 35 people were killed in a stampede at the crowded gathering. Stampede at Soleimani's funeral <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qasem-soleimani-stampede-kills-35-at-funeral-for-iranian-general-killed-by-us-272728">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Iranian Ambassador to India Dr Ali Chegeni said on January 8, 2020, "India is a part of the region. It should be a part of de-escalation. We are welcoming any initiative from our good friends from India." Iran ambassador requests India <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-reaches-out-to-countries-in-west-asia-amid-us-iran-tensions-272367">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

Watch:&nbsp;Iranian Ambassador to India: Expect India to play peacemaker

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iranian-ambassador-to-india-expect-india-to-play-peacemaker-273078/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<ul>
	<li>Two rockets crashed late Wednesday into the Iraqi capital's Green Zone, the high-security enclave where foreign embassies including that of the&nbsp;United States&nbsp;are based, said security sources. No casualties were reported <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-is-well-so-far-so-good-says-trump-after-irans-missile-strikes-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272818">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>The attack came nearly 24 hours after Tehran launched ballistic missiles at Iraqi bases —&nbsp;Al-Asad and Erbil —&nbsp;housing American and other coalition forces, which did not cause casualties. The two strikes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/key-facts-about-al-asad-us-air-base-in-iraq-attacked-by-iran-272873">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>After conducting ballistic strikes on US bases, Iran's ambassador to the UN, Majid Takht Ravanchi, in a letter to the United Nations said his country has full respect for "the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Iraq." Iran's letter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-fully-respect-iraqs-sovereignty-says-irans-un-ambassador-after-ballistic-missile-strike-273064">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>President Donald Trump while addressing the nation from the White House, said there were no American or Iraqi casualties after Iran conducted the missile strikes on air&nbsp;bases housing American troops. Trump said Iran appeared to be standing down <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-iranian-strike-caused-no-american-deaths-273051">Read More</a></li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/assassination-of-qasim-soleimani-what-we-know-so-far-272653">Assassination of Qasim Soleimani: What we know so far</a>

Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/qasem-soleimanis-burial-ceremony-underway-272827">Qasem Soleimani's burial ceremony underway</a>

&nbsp;

Watch: 3 Katyusha rockets hit Green Zone in Baghdad

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/3-katyusha-rockets-hit-green-zone-in-baghdad-273080/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

American airstrikes last week killed Iranian Quds Force commander Major-Genral Qasim Soleimani and Iraq's militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, which drove the entire region into a state of chaos.

American airstrikes last week killed Iranian Quds Force commander Major-Genral Qasim Soleimani and Iraq's militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, which drove the entire region into a state of chaos. Iran on Wednesday retaliated with missile strikes against American positions in Iraq. The Americans announced that there were no casualties after the attack on Al-Asad and Erbil. Here is what we know so far: On January 7, 2020, slain Quds Force commander Qasim Soleimani's body reached his hometown of Kerman in southeastern Iran, where people in tears, clad in black gathered on the streets to pay their last respects to the fallen 'Hero'. Soleimani funeral Read More On January 8, 2020, the General's body was finally buried after at least 35 people were killed in a stampede at the crowded gathering. Stampede at Soleimani's funeral Read More Iranian Ambassador to India Dr Ali Chegeni said on January 8, 2020, "India is a part of the region. It should be a part of de-escalation. We are welcoming any initiative from our good friends from India." Iran ambassador requests India Read More Watch: Iranian Ambassador to India: Expect India to play peacemaker × Two rockets crashed late Wednesday into the Iraqi capital's Green Zone, the high-security enclave where foreign embassies including that of the United States are based, said security sources. No casualties were reported Read More The attack came nearly 24 hours after Tehran launched ballistic missiles at Iraqi bases — Al-Asad and Erbil — housing American and other coalition forces, which did not cause casualties. The two strikes Read More After conducting ballistic strikes on US bases, Iran's ambassador to the UN, Majid Takht Ravanchi, in a letter to the United Nations said his country has full respect for "the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of the Republic of Iraq." Iran's letter Read More President Donald Trump while addressing the nation from the White House, said there were no American or Iraqi casualties after Iran conducted the missile strikes on air bases housing American troops. Trump said Iran appeared to be standing down Read More Read: Assassination of Qasim Soleimani: What we know so far Watch: Qasem Soleimani's burial ceremony underway Watch: 3 Katyusha rockets hit Green Zone in Baghdad ×

Iran missile attack news: Iran appears to be standing down, says Trump

A three-day national funeral procession was held for the head of Iran's Quds Force commander&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-gather-to-pay-homage-to-slain-iran-general-soleimani-in-tehran-272439">Qasem Soleimani</a>, marked by hundreds of thousands of mourners who were seen carrying his casket with the slain general's posters&nbsp;across Iran and Iraq.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

<ul>
	<li>Soleimani was killed&nbsp;in an airstrike authorised by US President Donald Trump. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Iran appointed General Esmail Ghaani as the head of the elite Quds Force. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The killing escalated tensions between Iran-US relations. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mourners marched chanting "Death of America" and "We will take our revenge" through the streets of Iran and Iraq. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>On January 5, President Trump raised the prospect targetting&nbsp;of 52 Iranian cultural sites. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>President&nbsp;Trump also threatened&nbsp;sanctions on Iraq after lawmakers called&nbsp;US troops to leave the country. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>France, Britain and Germany have called on&nbsp;Iran to refrain from violence. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Iranians and Iraqis detained and refused the re-entry of Americans. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Soleimani will be buried in his hometown on Tuesday. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>January 6 marked&nbsp;the second day of Soleimani's national funeral procession. 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Read More: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-iran-strike-us-will-quickly-strike-back-says-trump-272374">Should Iran strike, US will quickly strike back, says Trump</a>

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-militants-storm-military-base-in-somalia-kill-3-american-citizens-272394">Al Shabaab militants storm military base in Somalia; kill 3 American citizens</a>

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-media-challenges-vice-president-mike-pences-claims-of-soleimani-assisting-911-terrorists-272199">US media challenges Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani assisting 9/11 terrorists</a> 
&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Thousands pay respect to Qasem Soleimani

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-thousands-pay-respect-to-qasem-soleimani-272305/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
(With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

A three-day national funeral procession was held for the head of Iran's Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani, marked by hundreds of thousands of mourners who were seen carrying his casket with the slain general's posters across Iran and Iraq.

A three-day national funeral procession was held for the head of Iran's Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani, marked by hundreds of thousands of mourners who were seen carrying his casket with the slain general's posters across Iran and Iraq. Soleimani was killed in an airstrike authorised by US President Donald Trump. Iran appointed General Esmail Ghaani as the head of the elite Quds Force. The killing escalated tensions between Iran-US relations. Mourners marched chanting "Death of America" and "We will take our revenge" through the streets of Iran and Iraq. On January 5, President Trump raised the prospect targetting of 52 Iranian cultural sites. President Trump also threatened sanctions on Iraq after lawmakers called US troops to leave the country. France, Britain and Germany have called on Iran to refrain from violence. Iranians and Iraqis detained and refused the re-entry of Americans. Soleimani will be buried in his hometown on Tuesday. January 6 marked the second day of Soleimani's national funeral procession. Read More: Should Iran strike, US will quickly strike back, says Trump Read More: Al Shabaab militants storm military base in Somalia; kill 3 American citizens Read More: US media challenges Vice President Mike Pence's claims of Soleimani assisting 9/11 terrorists Watch: Thousands pay respect to Qasem Soleimani × (With inputs from Reuters and AFP)

Latest updates on Iran general Qasem Soleimani's killing

US-Iran conflict is a tricky situation for India. India maintains strong ties with both the US & Iran. This presents India an opportunity to broker peace in West Asia. Can & Will India play peacemaker? On Wion Edit Palki Sharma explores. #Gravitas #India #US #Iran

Wion Edit: US-Iran conflict: Can India play peacemaker?

Asian&nbsp;stocks rebounded on Thursday and&nbsp;oil&nbsp;edged&nbsp;up&nbsp;as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays.

US&nbsp;President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/what-made-us-president-donald-trump-threaten-iran-271452">Donald Trump</a> responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US&nbsp;forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it would retaliate further over a January&nbsp;3 US&nbsp;strike that killed one of its senior military commanders.

MSCI's broadest index of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/global-markets-asian-shares-lower-as-investors-book-decade-end-profits-271229">Asia-Pacific&nbsp;shares</a>&nbsp;outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's&nbsp;losses.

Japan's Nikkei rose 1.8 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far, while Australian stocks climbed 1 per cent&nbsp;to just below December's record high.

"I think today is a bit of a relief rally," said Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP Capital in Sydney.

"Yesterday, investors were fearing the worst, that this was the escalation now underway. The news overnight has been more along the lines that Iran pulled its punches and Trump is toning things down," he said, "which is seen by investors as substantially reducing the risk of war."

Investors quit the safe-haven Japanese yen, sending it sliding from a three-month high to a two-week low of 109.25 yen per dollar.

Oil&nbsp;now sits just about where it was before the killing of the Iranian commander, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-qasem-soleimani-will-lead-to-the-strengthening-of-iranian-hardliners-272109">Qasem Soleimani</a>, in Baghdad, a strike that raised fears of an escalating regional conflict.

Brent futures prices crept&nbsp;up&nbsp;from month lows hit overnight to $65.84 per barrel, about where they began the year.

Gold gave back sharp gains made on Wednesday but remains dearer than before Soleimani's death, in an indication that investors' fears have not completely evaporated.

It drifted higher to $1,560.00 per ounce.

Iran fired missiles at military bases housing US&nbsp;troops in Iraq on Wednesday in response to Soleimani's killing. But Trump said no Americans were hurt and made no direct threats of a military response in an address to the nation on Wednesday.

"Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," he said. He announced economic sanctions on Iran without giving details.

Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-invites-iranian-foreign-minister-zarif-to-brussels-amid-rising-middle-east-tension-272290">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> had earlier said the strikes "concluded" Tehran's response to the killing of Soleimani.

On Wall Street stocks rose, led by the Nasdaq which added 0.67 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&amp;P 500 &nbsp;each rose roughly half a percentage point.

US&nbsp;Treasuries, which had soared in the flight to safety a day ago also settled back, with yields on the benchmark 10-year US&nbsp;Treasury note at 1.8598 per cent, after dropping as low as 1.705 per cent.

Risk appetite was also evident in currency markets, with China's trade-exposed yuan standing at a five-month high of 6.9283 per dollar and the Aussie creeping higher.

"All is well so said,&nbsp;Trump! That is the mood today," said Bank of Singapore Currency Strategist Moh Siong Sim, a reference to Wednesday's&nbsp;upbeat tweet from the president.

"I think that neither side wants to have a further escalation in tension, and both parties seem to be standing down."

Asian stocks rebounded on Thursday and oil edged up as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays.

Asian stocks rebounded on Thursday and oil edged up as the United States and Iran backed away from the brink of further conflict in the Middle East and investors unwound safety plays. US President Donald Trump responded overnight to an Iranian attack on US forces with sanctions, not violence. Iran offered no immediate signal it would retaliate further over a January 3 US strike that killed one of its senior military commanders. MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan rose 1 per cent, as did Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Shanghai blue chips, reversing Wednesday's losses. Japan's Nikkei rose 1.8 per cent, lifting stocks to their highest for the year so far, while Australian stocks climbed 1 per cent to just below December's record high. "I think today is a bit of a relief rally," said Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP Capital in Sydney. "Yesterday, investors were fearing the worst, that this was the escalation now underway. The news overnight has been more along the lines that Iran pulled its punches and Trump is toning things down," he said, "which is seen by investors as substantially reducing the risk of war." Investors quit the safe-haven Japanese yen, sending it sliding from a three-month high to a two-week low of 109.25 yen per dollar. Oil now sits just about where it was before the killing of the Iranian commander, Qasem Soleimani, in Baghdad, a strike that raised fears of an escalating regional conflict. Brent futures prices crept up from month lows hit overnight to $65.84 per barrel, about where they began the year. Gold gave back sharp gains made on Wednesday but remains dearer than before Soleimani's death, in an indication that investors' fears have not completely evaporated. It drifted higher to $1,560.00 per ounce. Iran fired missiles at military bases housing US troops in Iraq on Wednesday in response to Soleimani's killing. But Trump said no Americans were hurt and made no direct threats of a military response in an address to the nation on Wednesday. "Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world," he said. He announced economic sanctions on Iran without giving details. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had earlier said the strikes "concluded" Tehran's response to the killing of Soleimani. On Wall Street stocks rose, led by the Nasdaq which added 0.67 per cent, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average and the S&P 500 each rose roughly half a percentage point. US Treasuries, which had soared in the flight to safety a day ago also settled back, with yields on the benchmark 10-year US Treasury note at 1.8598 per cent, after dropping as low as 1.705 per cent. Risk appetite was also evident in currency markets, with China's trade-exposed yuan standing at a five-month high of 6.9283 per dollar and the Aussie creeping higher. "All is well so said, Trump! That is the mood today," said Bank of Singapore Currency Strategist Moh Siong Sim, a reference to Wednesday's upbeat tweet from the president. "I think that neither side wants to have a further escalation in tension, and both parties seem to be standing down."

Asian shares erase losses as Mideast tensions ease, oil ticks up

US President Donald Trump's speech on January 8 following the attack on US forces was not what the world expected. Many thought that his speech was incoherent. The speech included a call for de-escalation, potshop at Obama and a re-election speech. #DonaldTrump #US #TrumpSpeech #Iran #SoleimaniKilling

WION Dispatch: Trump's Iran speech another rant against Soleimani, many call it incoherent

Many are calling Trump's speech on Iran incoherent that there is no clear message in it. WION has identified three things that were missing from Trump's speech. Watch report to know more: #Trump #DonaldTrump #TrumpSpeech #WION #US #IRAN

Three things missing from Trump's speech on Iran

By Rockford Weitz

Soaring tensions between Iran and the United States have reignited fears that the Strait of Hormuz could become a flashpoint as Tehran responds to the killing of its top general.

Oil prices climbed on news of the fatal airstrike, reflecting concern that any fallout could disrupt shipping in the narrow seaway through which 21 per cent of the world’s crude oil passes.

Meanwhile, the US Maritime Administration issued an alert over potential Iranian action against “Maritime interests in the region” and the UK announced that the Royal Navy would resume escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as a precaution.

As a researcher who studies strategic maritime chokepoints like this one in the Middle East, I have seen how past skirmishes in this waterway have fit into Iran’s use of hybrid warfare – unconventional tactics that achieve strategic goals without triggering conventional military retaliation. In fact, Iranian leaders will likely feel tremendous political pressure to ratchet up maritime hybrid warfare in response to the drone strike that killed the general.

A 21-mile-wide waterway

This 21-mile-wide channel connects the Indian Ocean with the Gulf. For all of recorded history, it has connected Arab and Persian civilisations with the Indian subcontinent and Pacific Asia. For example, before the rise of European seaborne empires in the 15th and 16th centuries, porcelain from China and spices from the Indochina peninsula often passed through the strait on the way to Central Asia and Europe.

Today the Strait of Hormuz separates Iran from the countries of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, which have strong military ties with the United States.

All shipping traffic from energy-rich Gulf countries converges in the strait, including crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports from Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

This maritime chokepoint became an arena of conflict during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s. Each side in the so-called “Tanker War” tried to sink the other’s energy exports. To avoid being targeted, Kuwaiti oil tankers were reflagged under the US&nbsp;shipping registry, obscuring their true ownership. Although crude oil continued to flow, marine insurance rates for vessels operating in the strait spiked by as much as 400 per cent.

Why is the strait a concern now? 
 
The US killing of General Qasem Soleimani has sparked fears that Iran could take action in the Strait of Hormuz as part of a retaliatory move – as they have threatened before.

Recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz arose after the Trump administration’s decision to leave the Iran nuclear deal in May 2018. When Iran struck that accord in 2015 with the US, UK, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union, it agreed to restrict its nuclear development in exchange for lifting economic sanctions against it.

By July 2018, Iran had threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz to retaliate against the ratcheting up of US&nbsp;sanctions against it.

By engaging in hybrid warfare, Iran appeared to be disrupting trade flows through the Strait, raising diplomatic stakes in the process.

Notably, in June 2019 attacks on Japanese and Norwegian-owned oil tankers coincided with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s visit to Tehran. Iran denied any involvement, but the US&nbsp;released video footage it said showed Iranian special forces removing an unexploded mine from one of the tanker’s hulls. If Iran was behind the attacks, it could have been a signal to Japan and China that they need to pressure the Trump administration to ease its sanctions against Iran – or risk disruptions to vital oil and gas exports to Asia transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Could Iran close the strait?

In my view, Iran would certainly have trouble stopping all shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Modern cargo vessels are massive and difficult to disable. Unlike in the 1980s, most oil tankers now have double hulls, making them harder to sink. Furthermore, earlier this year the US assembled a multinational coalition to monitor and respond to threats to commercial shipping in the strait.

Iran will also be wary of the impact that closing the Strait of Hormuz could have on its relations with important economic partners, such as China. It is estimated that 76 per cent of crude oil passing through the waterway is destined for Asian markets, with China, India, Japan, South Korea and Singapore among the largest markets.

In the past both the US and Iran have pivoted back to diplomatic solutions when tensions have become too high, suggesting that neither side wants to see the conflict escalate from hybrid warfare into a full-blown war.

 
(Rockford Weitz is Professor of Practice &amp; Director, Fletcher Maritime Studies Program, The Fletcher School, Tufts University) 
 
(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/could-iran-us-tensions-mean-troubled-waters-ahead-in-the-strait-of-hormuz-129508">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Rockford Weitz Soaring tensions between Iran and the United States have reignited fears that the Strait of Hormuz could become a flashpoint as Tehran responds to the killing of its top general.

By Rockford Weitz Soaring tensions between Iran and the United States have reignited fears that the Strait of Hormuz could become a flashpoint as Tehran responds to the killing of its top general. Oil prices climbed on news of the fatal airstrike, reflecting concern that any fallout could disrupt shipping in the narrow seaway through which 21 per cent of the world’s crude oil passes. Meanwhile, the US Maritime Administration issued an alert over potential Iranian action against “Maritime interests in the region” and the UK announced that the Royal Navy would resume escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as a precaution. As a researcher who studies strategic maritime chokepoints like this one in the Middle East, I have seen how past skirmishes in this waterway have fit into Iran’s use of hybrid warfare – unconventional tactics that achieve strategic goals without triggering conventional military retaliation. In fact, Iranian leaders will likely feel tremendous political pressure to ratchet up maritime hybrid warfare in response to the drone strike that killed the general. A 21-mile-wide waterway This 21-mile-wide channel connects the Indian Ocean with the Gulf. For all of recorded history, it has connected Arab and Persian civilisations with the Indian subcontinent and Pacific Asia. For example, before the rise of European seaborne empires in the 15th and 16th centuries, porcelain from China and spices from the Indochina peninsula often passed through the strait on the way to Central Asia and Europe. Today the Strait of Hormuz separates Iran from the countries of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, which have strong military ties with the United States. All shipping traffic from energy-rich Gulf countries converges in the strait, including crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports from Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. This maritime chokepoint became an arena of conflict during the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s. Each side in the so-called “Tanker War” tried to sink the other’s energy exports. To avoid being targeted, Kuwaiti oil tankers were reflagged under the US shipping registry, obscuring their true ownership. Although crude oil continued to flow, marine insurance rates for vessels operating in the strait spiked by as much as 400 per cent. Why is the strait a concern now? The US killing of General Qasem Soleimani has sparked fears that Iran could take action in the Strait of Hormuz as part of a retaliatory move – as they have threatened before. Recent tensions in the Strait of Hormuz arose after the Trump administration’s decision to leave the Iran nuclear deal in May 2018. When Iran struck that accord in 2015 with the US, UK, Russia, France, China, Germany and the European Union, it agreed to restrict its nuclear development in exchange for lifting economic sanctions against it. By July 2018, Iran had threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz to retaliate against the ratcheting up of US sanctions against it. By engaging in hybrid warfare, Iran appeared to be disrupting trade flows through the Strait, raising diplomatic stakes in the process. Notably, in June 2019 attacks on Japanese and Norwegian-owned oil tankers coincided with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s visit to Tehran. Iran denied any involvement, but the US released video footage it said showed Iranian special forces removing an unexploded mine from one of the tanker’s hulls. If Iran was behind the attacks, it could have been a signal to Japan and China that they need to pressure the Trump administration to ease its sanctions against Iran – or risk disruptions to vital oil and gas exports to Asia transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Could Iran close the strait? In my view, Iran would certainly have trouble stopping all shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Modern cargo vessels are massive and difficult to disable. Unlike in the 1980s, most oil tankers now have double hulls, making them harder to sink. Furthermore, earlier this year the US assembled a multinational coalition to monitor and respond to threats to commercial shipping in the strait. Iran will also be wary of the impact that closing the Strait of Hormuz could have on its relations with important economic partners, such as China. It is estimated that 76 per cent of crude oil passing through the waterway is destined for Asian markets, with China, India, Japan, South Korea and Singapore among the largest markets. In the past both the US and Iran have pivoted back to diplomatic solutions when tensions have become too high, suggesting that neither side wants to see the conflict escalate from hybrid warfare into a full-blown war. (Rockford Weitz is Professor of Practice & Director, Fletcher Maritime Studies Program, The Fletcher School, Tufts University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Could Iran-US tensions mean troubled waters ahead in the Strait of Hormuz?

The biggest question across the world right now is Iran retaliating against the US. The missile attacks on Iraqi bases hosting US personnel is Iran's revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani.

Experts say that this was aimed at satisfying the domestic audience in Tehran.&nbsp;

With missile attacks, Iran's Supreme Leader has used a dangerous language, "Slap on the face of the US, but such military actions are not enough".

Iran's strikes were highly symbolic. It happened around the same time as Soleimani's killing on Friday - 1.30 am.

Like Donald Trump, many Iranian officials tweeted pictures of the national flag. And Iranian media is hailing the strikes, but there is no clarity on the casualties.

Upon closer look, it is clear that Iran targetted bases that were on high alert. Foreign Minister of Iran says that the strikes were in 'self-defence' and 'within the boundaries of international law'.

Meanwhile, after the attacks, President Trump tweeted "All is well", "So Far So Good". He also highlighted America's military might.

The 'All is Well' comment does not mean that the US will not attack Iran if provoked further. Right now, there is a chance for both the parties to de-escalate the conflict.&nbsp;

But the question is, will the US take that chance? Will Iran refrain from further attacks?

These are the important questions, but it is unwise to look for clear answers at this juncture. There are many reasons for this lack of clarity.

First, Iran did not show any regard for Iraq's sovereignty. This could be a sign of things to come.

Iran runs many proxy wars in the region outside the range of the US counter strikes - the Houthis in Yemen,&nbsp;Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

Iran could initiate conflicts in these regions simultaneously. Second, Iran can continue with its typical dangerous tactics, like rocket strikes on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia and cyber warfare.

Three, if US President Donald Trump is unpredictable, then Iran's Supreme Commander Khamenei wants more revenge.

While most countries have urged both the countries to calm down, the chances of a full-blown conflict remain at large. Israel has given its complete backing to the US.

But now, it is a game of who-blinks-first. Iran wants to end the presence of America in the region, but Trump won't take any attack from Iran lying down.

Both the sides have an option now to de-escalate, but the rhetoric from Tehran is worrisome - for regional peace, global peace and global economy.

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp;

The biggest question across the world right now is Iran retaliating against the US. The missile attacks on Iraqi bases hosting US personnel is Iran's revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani.

The biggest question across the world right now is Iran retaliating against the US. The missile attacks on Iraqi bases hosting US personnel is Iran's revenge for the killing of Qasem Soleimani. Experts say that this was aimed at satisfying the domestic audience in Tehran. With missile attacks, Iran's Supreme Leader has used a dangerous language, "Slap on the face of the US, but such military actions are not enough". Iran's strikes were highly symbolic. It happened around the same time as Soleimani's killing on Friday - 1.30 am. Like Donald Trump, many Iranian officials tweeted pictures of the national flag. And Iranian media is hailing the strikes, but there is no clarity on the casualties. Upon closer look, it is clear that Iran targetted bases that were on high alert. Foreign Minister of Iran says that the strikes were in 'self-defence' and 'within the boundaries of international law'. Meanwhile, after the attacks, President Trump tweeted "All is well", "So Far So Good". He also highlighted America's military might. The 'All is Well' comment does not mean that the US will not attack Iran if provoked further. Right now, there is a chance for both the parties to de-escalate the conflict. But the question is, will the US take that chance? Will Iran refrain from further attacks? These are the important questions, but it is unwise to look for clear answers at this juncture. There are many reasons for this lack of clarity. First, Iran did not show any regard for Iraq's sovereignty. This could be a sign of things to come. Iran runs many proxy wars in the region outside the range of the US counter strikes - the Houthis in Yemen, Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza. Iran could initiate conflicts in these regions simultaneously. Second, Iran can continue with its typical dangerous tactics, like rocket strikes on oil facilities in Saudi Arabia and cyber warfare. Three, if US President Donald Trump is unpredictable, then Iran's Supreme Commander Khamenei wants more revenge. While most countries have urged both the countries to calm down, the chances of a full-blown conflict remain at large. Israel has given its complete backing to the US. But now, it is a game of who-blinks-first. Iran wants to end the presence of America in the region, but Trump won't take any attack from Iran lying down. Both the sides have an option now to de-escalate, but the rhetoric from Tehran is worrisome - for regional peace, global peace and global economy. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: US-Iran conflict - what's next?

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-no-us-troops-hurt-in-iran-strikes-announces-new-sanctions-on-iran-273049">US President Donald Trump</a> on Wednesday hailed the US missile arsenal and said that many hypersonic missiles are under construction.&nbsp;

While delivering his address to the nation from the White House, Trump described US missiles as "big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast".

Trump called top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani a top terrorist and defended his killing in US strikes that hit Iraq's Baghdad International Airport on January 3.&nbsp;

The US president also said that casualties were avoided in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-its-time-for-iraqi-response-to-us-drone-strike-says-paramilitary-chief-qais-al-khazali-272966">Iran's ballistic missile attack at US bases in Iraq</a> as a warning was issued in advance by the Pentagon.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
LIVE: President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> Addresses the Nation <a href="https://t.co/vRH9gVAD0N">https://t.co/vRH9gVAD0N</a>
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) <a href="https://twitter.com/WhiteHouse/status/1214946620053184513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Trump added that "we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it. We do not want to use it."

Iran on Wednesday, in retaliation to Soleimani's killing, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-fires-missiles-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272811">fired over a dozen ballistic missiles</a> at two Iraqi bases housing US troops.

Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said that the strikes were not to escalate tension or to start a war but were an act of self-defence in accordance with the UN charter.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/donald-trump-iranian-strike-caused-no-american-deaths-273051/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Shortly after Iran fired missiles, Trump tweeted out saying "All is well!"

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-slain-general-soleimani-laid-to-rest-in-hometown-kerman-272814">Also Read: Iran's slain general Soleimani laid to rest in hometown Kerman</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties &amp; damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1214739853025394693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties &amp; damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well-equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning," his tweet read.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday hailed the US missile arsenal and said that many hypersonic missiles are under construction. While delivering his address to the nation from the White House, Trump described US missiles as "big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast".

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday hailed the US missile arsenal and said that many hypersonic missiles are under construction. While delivering his address to the nation from the White House, Trump described US missiles as "big, powerful, accurate, lethal and fast". Trump called top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani a top terrorist and defended his killing in US strikes that hit Iraq's Baghdad International Airport on January 3. The US president also said that casualties were avoided in Iran's ballistic missile attack at US bases in Iraq as a warning was issued in advance by the Pentagon. LIVE: President @realDonaldTrump Addresses the Nation https://t.co/vRH9gVAD0N — The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 8, 2020 × Trump added that "we have this great military and equipment, however, does not mean we have to use it. We do not want to use it." Iran on Wednesday, in retaliation to Soleimani's killing, fired over a dozen ballistic missiles at two Iraqi bases housing US troops. Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif said that the strikes were not to escalate tension or to start a war but were an act of self-defence in accordance with the UN charter. × Shortly after Iran fired missiles, Trump tweeted out saying "All is well!" Also Read: Iran's slain general Soleimani laid to rest in hometown Kerman All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 8, 2020 × "All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well-equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning," his tweet read.

We're constructing many hypersonic missiles: US President Donald Trump

Five days after Iran's second most powerful man General Soleimain was killing in a US drone attack, Iran has retaliated. Iran launched missiles at the US military bases in Iraq. This has heightened tensions in the region. WION's MollyGambhir explains. #Gravitas #USMilitaryBases #US #Iran

Gravitas: Iran missiles target US bases In Iraq

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?

Turkish President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-to-back-libya-deployment-bill-but-troops-unlikely-for-now-271717">Recep Tayyip Erdogan</a> will host Russian counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/russian-president-vladimir-putin-scores-eight-goals-in-all-star-hockey-game-217675">Vladimir Putin</a> on Wednesday to inaugurate a new gas pipeline, with tensions in Libya and Syria also on the agenda.

Putin arrived late on Tuesday after paying a surprise visit to Syria his first to Damascus since the war began at a moment of acute uncertainty in the Middle East following the assassination of top Iranian general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">Qasem Soleimani</a> by the United States.&nbsp;

Russia's leader will seek to boost his credentials as a regional powerbroker at the symbolic opening of the TurkStream pipeline, which brings Russian gas to Turkey and southern Europe via the Black Sea.

TurkStream and the Nord Stream pipelines under the Baltic allow Russia to increase gas supplies to Europe without having to rely on Ukraine.

But Moscow's increasing domination of European energy markets has worried the US, which last month sanctioned firms working on TurkStream and the almost completed Nord Stream 2.

The ceremony in Istanbul, due to start at 1200 GMT, reflects a dramatic improvement in ties between Russia and Turkey&nbsp;two countries seemingly on the verge of war less than five years ago after Turkey shot down a Russian jet.

They remain on opposing sides in the Syria conflict and could be on a collision course in Libya.

Last week, Turkey sent its first troops to help defend the UN-backed Tripoli government, which is under siege from strongman Khalifa Haftar.&nbsp;

Erdogan says 2,500 Russian mercenaries are among those supporting Haftar claims denied by Moscow.&nbsp;

But Russia so far seems unfazed by the Turkish deployment in Libya, said Mariana Belenkaia, of the Carnegie Centre in Moscow.

"The two countries will likely be tempted to share the Libyan burden," she said.&nbsp;

Syria remains a potential powder-keg for Erdogan and Putin's relationship.&nbsp;

Syrian government forces backed by Russia have ramped up bombardment of the last rebel strongholds in Idlib province in recent weeks, sending hundreds of thousands fleeing towards the Turkish border.&nbsp;

Erdogan has called for a truce in Idlib, following previous temporary halts to the fighting brokered with Russia in late 2018 and updated in August last year.

"Russia's demands are very simple," said Yury Barmin, of the Moscow Policy Group think tank, "Turkey must do more to eliminate terrorist cells in Idlib. The discussions will be around this idea."

Improved ties between the two countries have been facilitated by a number of major energy and defence deals Russia is building Turkey's first nuclear plant and provided a missile defence system.

Putin also earned goodwill in Turkey after his quick support for Erdogan following an attempted coup in July 2016.&nbsp;

The two men have developed a "strong personal relationship", according to Jana Jabbour of Sciences Po university in Paris, who adds that "their economic and energy plans are interdependent".

The TurkStream project, which was temporarily halted during a frosty patch in Russia-Turkey relations, includes two parallel pipelines of more than 900 kilometers (550 miles).

The pipeline links Anapa in Russia to Kiyikoy in northwestern Turkey and has already begun deliveries to Bulgaria. It is being extended towards Serbia, Hungary, and Austria.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will host Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Wednesday to inaugurate a new gas pipeline, with tensions in Libya and Syria also on the agenda.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will host Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin on Wednesday to inaugurate a new gas pipeline, with tensions in Libya and Syria also on the agenda. Putin arrived late on Tuesday after paying a surprise visit to Syria his first to Damascus since the war began at a moment of acute uncertainty in the Middle East following the assassination of top Iranian general Qasem Soleimani by the United States. Russia's leader will seek to boost his credentials as a regional powerbroker at the symbolic opening of the TurkStream pipeline, which brings Russian gas to Turkey and southern Europe via the Black Sea. TurkStream and the Nord Stream pipelines under the Baltic allow Russia to increase gas supplies to Europe without having to rely on Ukraine. But Moscow's increasing domination of European energy markets has worried the US, which last month sanctioned firms working on TurkStream and the almost completed Nord Stream 2. The ceremony in Istanbul, due to start at 1200 GMT, reflects a dramatic improvement in ties between Russia and Turkey two countries seemingly on the verge of war less than five years ago after Turkey shot down a Russian jet. They remain on opposing sides in the Syria conflict and could be on a collision course in Libya. Last week, Turkey sent its first troops to help defend the UN-backed Tripoli government, which is under siege from strongman Khalifa Haftar. Erdogan says 2,500 Russian mercenaries are among those supporting Haftar claims denied by Moscow. But Russia so far seems unfazed by the Turkish deployment in Libya, said Mariana Belenkaia, of the Carnegie Centre in Moscow. "The two countries will likely be tempted to share the Libyan burden," she said. Syria remains a potential powder-keg for Erdogan and Putin's relationship. Syrian government forces backed by Russia have ramped up bombardment of the last rebel strongholds in Idlib province in recent weeks, sending hundreds of thousands fleeing towards the Turkish border. Erdogan has called for a truce in Idlib, following previous temporary halts to the fighting brokered with Russia in late 2018 and updated in August last year. "Russia's demands are very simple," said Yury Barmin, of the Moscow Policy Group think tank, "Turkey must do more to eliminate terrorist cells in Idlib. The discussions will be around this idea." Improved ties between the two countries have been facilitated by a number of major energy and defence deals Russia is building Turkey's first nuclear plant and provided a missile defence system. Putin also earned goodwill in Turkey after his quick support for Erdogan following an attempted coup in July 2016. The two men have developed a "strong personal relationship", according to Jana Jabbour of Sciences Po university in Paris, who adds that "their economic and energy plans are interdependent". The TurkStream project, which was temporarily halted during a frosty patch in Russia-Turkey relations, includes two parallel pipelines of more than 900 kilometers (550 miles). The pipeline links Anapa in Russia to Kiyikoy in northwestern Turkey and has already begun deliveries to Bulgaria. It is being extended towards Serbia, Hungary, and Austria.

Vladimir Putin visits Turkey to talk Libya, Syria and gas

US Defense Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-meets-mark-esper-on-the-sidelines-of-admm-plus-meeting-in-bangkok-262660">Mark Esper</a> on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-vows-to-eliminate-islamic-state-says-will-take-revenge-for-our-people-244235">Ashraf Ghani</a> and Pakistani Army Chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-qamar-javed-bajwas-term-as-army-chief-extended-for-another-3-years-244163">Qamar Javed Bajwa</a> offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region.

"The United States does not seek conflict but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today," Esper tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The United States does not seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ashrafghani</a> and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today.
— Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper (@EsperDoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD/status/1214643648475881480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Trump administration has dialled up various leaders in the world to defend United States` fatal strike that claimed the life of Iranian Quds Force chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/the-killing-of-iranians-general-qasem-soleimani-and-its-consequences-271884">Qasem Soleimani</a>. The attack has further downgraded US relations with Tehran.

Iran has vowed to take revenge for the killing of the most revered military personnel in Iran. The strike has been deployed by several countries including Iraq, Russia, and China."I always appreciate speaking with our partners and allies in the region. We all seek the de-escalation of tensions with Iran," he added.

Meanwhile, Ghani took to Twitter to inform about the phone call between Esper and him, adding that he and Esper agreed that its time for an urgent de-escalation between Washington and Tehran.

"I spoke with Secretary Esper this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it`s time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran," Ghani tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I spoke with Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/EsperDoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EsperDoD</a> this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it's time for urgent <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/de?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#de</a>-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
— Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani/status/1214574027769024513?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The tensions between the two nations have persisted since 2018 when <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/all-is-well-so-far-so-good-says-trump-after-irans-missile-strikes-at-us-bases-in-iraq-272818">Trump</a> unilaterally announced that the US is not a part of the 2015 nuclear deal which was brokered by his predecessor Barack Obama.

Following the withdrawal from the deal, the United States has imposed a number of sanctions against Iran to force the country to renegotiate the deal. The sanctions have crippled the Iranian economy, however, the country refused to bog down to US pressure and started to do away with the terms of the deal.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region.

US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Tuesday (local times) said that Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Pakistani Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa offered him sound advice during a phone call on the escalation of tensions in the middle eastern region. "The United States does not seek conflict but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today," Esper tweeted. The United States does not seek conflict, but will respond forcefully if necessary. Afghan President @ashrafghani and Pakistani General Bajwa both offered sound counsel and advice in calls today. — Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper (@EsperDoD) January 7, 2020 × Trump administration has dialled up various leaders in the world to defend United States` fatal strike that claimed the life of Iranian Quds Force chief Qasem Soleimani. The attack has further downgraded US relations with Tehran. Iran has vowed to take revenge for the killing of the most revered military personnel in Iran. The strike has been deployed by several countries including Iraq, Russia, and China."I always appreciate speaking with our partners and allies in the region. We all seek the de-escalation of tensions with Iran," he added. Meanwhile, Ghani took to Twitter to inform about the phone call between Esper and him, adding that he and Esper agreed that its time for an urgent de-escalation between Washington and Tehran. "I spoke with Secretary Esper this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it`s time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran," Ghani tweeted. I spoke with Secretary @EsperDoD this evening about the latest security developments in the region. We both agreed that it's time for urgent #de-escalation between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Iran. — Ashraf Ghani (@ashrafghani) January 7, 2020 × The tensions between the two nations have persisted since 2018 when Trump unilaterally announced that the US is not a part of the 2015 nuclear deal which was brokered by his predecessor Barack Obama. Following the withdrawal from the deal, the United States has imposed a number of sanctions against Iran to force the country to renegotiate the deal. The sanctions have crippled the Iranian economy, however, the country refused to bog down to US pressure and started to do away with the terms of the deal.

Afghan President, Pakistan Army Chief offer sound advice over Iran conflict: US defence secretary

The burial ceremony of Iran's General Qasem Soleimani is underway, burial was scheduled for Tuesday but due to stampede during the funeral procession, it is happening today. #WION #Iran #QasemSoleimani

Qasem Soleimani's burial ceremony underway

Amid heightened tension between Iran and the United States in the aftermath of the assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, Iran`s Ambassador to India Ali Chegeni on Wednesday said that Tehran is "not looking for war".

Amid heightened tension between Iran and the United States in the aftermath of the assassination of Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, Iran`s Ambassador to India Ali Chegeni on Wednesday said that Tehran is "not looking for war". "We are not looking for war. We are living in this region peacefully with our brothers and sisters including India. We don`t want any tension or escalation in this region," Chegeni told media persons in Delhi on Wednesday. Soleimani, the head of Iran`s Revolutionary Guards` elite Quds Force, was killed in a US drone strike ordered by President Donald Trump near Baghdad International Airport in Iraq last Friday. Soleimani's death resulted in dramatic escalation in tension between the US and Iran. The tension between the two countries has been on the rise since Trump unilaterally decided to withdraw Washington from the 2015 nuclear pact the world powers had struck with Tehran. Iran today fired several missiles at two Iraqi bases housing US troops in retaliation for the American strike. Responding to a question related to today`s airstrike, the ambassador said: "Whatever we have done is a part of our response." "Millions of people who participated in the funeral of General Qasem Soleimani had demanded the government for it. We have done it. We are not looking for war," he said. The envoy further said that India is a part of the region and therefore Tehran will welcome any initiative to curb the escalation of tension by its "good friends."

Iran not looking for war, air strike in Iraq part of our response, says Iran's envoy to India

Iran on Wednesday launched ballistic missile attacks on US bases&nbsp;in Iraq in retaliation to&nbsp;the US drone strike which killed Iranian commander General Qasem Soleimani, which has raised fears of a wider war in the&nbsp;Middle East. 
&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Iran launched ballistic missile strikes on the US bases in Iraq. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-slain-general-soleimani-laid-to-rest-in-hometown-kerman-272814">Read More</a></li>
	<li>Donald Trump tweeted, "All is well!" after the Iran missile strikes.</li>
	<li>Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps confirmed that they fired the missiles in retaliation to General&nbsp;Qasem Soleimani's killing.</li>
	<li>US Federal Aviation Administration said it would ban US carriers from operating in Iraq&nbsp;airspace including in Iran as&nbsp;several Asian carriers said there were avoiding flying over the region.</li>
	<li>A stampede had broken&nbsp;out at the funeral of&nbsp;General&nbsp;Qasem Soleimani killing&nbsp;56 people and injuring&nbsp;more than 210.</li>
	<li>General Qasem Soleimani's burial which was postponed on Tuesday due to a stampede began on Wednesday at Kerman even as Iran fired missiles at US bases in Iraq.</li>
</ul>

Read More:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/us-iran-tensions-and-why-india-should-care-271967">US-Iran tensions and why India should care</a>

Read More:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-slain-general-soleimani-laid-to-rest-in-hometown-kerman-272814">Iran's slain general Soleimani laid to rest in hometown Kerman</a>

Watch Video:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-attacks-two-iraqi-bases-housing-us-troops-272826/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Iran on Wednesday launched ballistic missile attacks on US bases in Iraq in retaliation to the US drone strike which killed Iranian commander General Qasem Soleimani, which has raised fears of a wider war in the Middle East.

Iran on Wednesday launched ballistic missile attacks on US bases in Iraq in retaliation to the US drone strike which killed Iranian commander General Qasem Soleimani, which has raised fears of a wider war in the Middle East. Iran launched ballistic missile strikes on the US bases in Iraq. Read More Donald Trump tweeted, "All is well!" after the Iran missile strikes. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps confirmed that they fired the missiles in retaliation to General Qasem Soleimani's killing. US Federal Aviation Administration said it would ban US carriers from operating in Iraq airspace including in Iran as several Asian carriers said there were avoiding flying over the region. A stampede had broken out at the funeral of General Qasem Soleimani killing 56 people and injuring more than 210. General Qasem Soleimani's burial which was postponed on Tuesday due to a stampede began on Wednesday at Kerman even as Iran fired missiles at US bases in Iraq. Read More: US-Iran tensions and why India should care Read More: Iran's slain general Soleimani laid to rest in hometown Kerman Watch Video:

Latest updates on general Soleimani's killing: Iran launches ballistic missile strikes on US bases in Iraq

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;

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;

"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;

"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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1214769223903301632?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

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;

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;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
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>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1214775291710558208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Iranian foreign minister Javad Zarif said that Tehran does not seek escalation or war but will defend itself against any form of aggression.&nbsp;

"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.

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;

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; 
&nbsp;

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

Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani will be laid to rest today in his hometown of Kerman as part of three days of ceremonies across the country. #Qasem Soleimani #Qasem Soleimaniburied #Iran

Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown

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.

<meta charset="utf-8" />

<ul>
	<li>Iran’s Quds Force Commander, Qasem Soleimani will be buried in his hometown, Kerman. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The three-day national funeral procession in Iran and Iraq will end today. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei promised "severe revenge". 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Mourners shouted ‘revenge’ during the national funeral procession observed in Soleimani’s death. 
	&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; 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The Tehran government said it will roll back from the international nuclear accord. 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Saudi’s foreign minister, Prince Faisal, said,&nbsp;“It is certainly a very dangerous moment." 
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>President Donald Trump tweeted, "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" over Iran’s announcement on Uranium extraction.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1214197038063243266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<ul>
	<li>Amid rising global tensions, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concern and called for ‘maximum restraint’.</li>
</ul>

Watch:&nbsp;Soleimani to be buried today in Iranian hometown

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/soleimani-to-be-buried-today-in-iranian-hometown-272599/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

 
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>

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>

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>

(With Inputs from AFP)

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

At least 50 people were killed in a stampede as tens of thousands of mourners packed streets for the funeral of a slain Iranian military commander in his hometown on Tuesday, forcing his burial to be delayed by several hours, state media said.

General Qasem Soleimani's burial began in the late afternoon in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman, four days after his killing in a US&nbsp;drone strike in Iraq that plunged the region into a new crisis and raised fears of a broader conflict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">Also Read:&nbsp;Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani</a>

"A few minutes ago his body was transferred to the martyrs' section of Kerman cemetery," the semi-official news agency ISNA reported, adding that Soleimani's internment had begun.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-iran-designates-pentagon-as-terrorist-272776/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A senior Iranian official said Tehran was considering several scenarios to avenge his killing. Other senior figures have said Iran will match the scale of Soleimani's killing when it responds, but that it will choose the time and place.

<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>

Tuesday's stampede broke out amid the crush of mourners, killing 50 people, Iran's ISNA news agency said, quoting the chief coroner for Kerman province, Abbas Amian. About 213 people were injured, an emergency services official told the semi-official Fars news agency.

"Today because of the heavy congestion of the crowd, unfortunately, a number of our fellow citizens who were mourning were injured and a number were killed," emergency medical services chief Pir Hossein Kolivand told state television.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-soleimani-killed-thousands-mourn-the-generals-death-in-tehran-272594/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The body of Soleimani, a national hero to many Iranians but viewed as a dangerous villain by Western governments opposed to the Islamic Republic, had been taken to Iraqi and Iranian cities before arriving in Kerman for burial.

In each place, huge numbers of people filled thoroughfares, chanting "Death to America" and weeping with emotion. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei shed tears when leading prayers in Tehran.

Soleimani, who commanded the elite Quds Force, was responsible for building up Tehran's network of proxy armies across the Middle East. He was a key figure in orchestrating Iran's long-standing campaign to drive US forces out of Iraq.

Iran's opponents say its proxies have fuelled conflicts, killing and displacing people in Iraq, Syria and beyond. Tehran says any operations abroad are at the request of governments and that it offers "advisory support".

The US defence secretary denied reports the U.S. military was preparing to withdraw from Iraq, where Tehran has vied with Washington for influence since the 2003 US invasion.

Revenge

"We will take revenge, hard and definitive revenge," the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, General Hossein Salami, told the crowds in Kerman before the stampede.

Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, said 13 "revenge scenarios" were being considered, Fars news agency reported. Even the weakest option would prove "a historic nightmare for the Americans," he said.

Iran, whose coastline runs along a Gulf oil shipping route that includes the narrow Strait of Hormuz, has allied forces across the Middle East through which it can act. Representatives from those groups, including the Palestinian group Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah movement, attended funeral events in Tehran.

Despite its strident rhetoric, analysts say Iran will want to avoid any conventional conflict with the United States and is likely to focus on asymmetric strikes, such as sabotage or other military action via proxies.

Trump has promised to target 52 Iranian sites if Iran retaliates.

Reuters and other media reported on Monday that the US military had sent a letter to Iraqi officials informing them US troops were preparing to leave. But US Defense Secretary Mark Esper denied there had been any decision to pull out.

About 5,000 US troops are still in Iraq, where there has been a US military presence since Saddam Hussein was toppled in 2003.

Friction

Iraq's parliament, dominated by lawmakers representing Muslim Shi'ite groups who have been united by the killing of Soleimani alongside an Iraqi militia leader, passed a resolution on Sunday calling for all foreign troops to leave.

Iraq's caretaker Prime Minister Abdel Abdul Mahdi told the US ambassador to Baghdad the resolution must be implemented.

Friction between Iran and the United States has risen since Washington withdrew in 2018 from a nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers.

The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on Iran, slashing Iranian oil exports, and Tehran said on Sunday it was dropping limitations on uranium enrichment, in its latest step back from commitments to the deal.

Washington denied a visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to allow him to attend a UN Security Council meeting in New York on Thursday, a US official said.

Trump's US political rivals have challenged his decision to order the killing of Soleimani and questioned its timing in a US election year. His administration said Soleimani was planning new attacks on US interests without giving evidence.

US general Milley said the threat from Soleimani was imminent. "We would have been culpably negligent to the American people had we not made the decision we made," he said.

Trump administration officials will provide a classified briefing for US senators on Wednesday on events in Iraq after some lawmakers accused the White House of risking a broad conflict without a strategy.

At least 50 people were killed in a stampede as tens of thousands of mourners packed streets for the funeral of a slain Iranian military commander in his hometown on Tuesday, forcing his burial to be delayed by several hours, state media said.

At least 50 people were killed in a stampede as tens of thousands of mourners packed streets for the funeral of a slain Iranian military commander in his hometown on Tuesday, forcing his burial to be delayed by several hours, state media said. General Qasem Soleimani's burial began in the late afternoon in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman, four days after his killing in a US drone strike in Iraq that plunged the region into a new crisis and raised fears of a broader conflict. Also Read: Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani "A few minutes ago his body was transferred to the martyrs' section of Kerman cemetery," the semi-official news agency ISNA reported, adding that Soleimani's internment had begun. Watch: A senior Iranian official said Tehran was considering several scenarios to avenge his killing. Other senior figures have said Iran will match the scale of Soleimani's killing when it responds, but that it will choose the time and place. In Pics: Crazy Trump, don't think that everything is over, says Zeinab, daughter of Qasem Soleimani Tuesday's stampede broke out amid the crush of mourners, killing 50 people, Iran's ISNA news agency said, quoting the chief coroner for Kerman province, Abbas Amian. About 213 people were injured, an emergency services official told the semi-official Fars news agency. "Today because of the heavy congestion of the crowd, unfortunately, a number of our fellow citizens who were mourning were injured and a number were killed," emergency medical services chief Pir Hossein Kolivand told state television. Watch: The body of Soleimani, a national hero to many Iranians but viewed as a dangerous villain by Western governments opposed to the Islamic Republic, had been taken to Iraqi and Iranian cities before arriving in Kerman for burial. In each place, huge numbers of people filled thoroughfares, chanting "Death to America" and weeping with emotion. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei shed tears when leading prayers in Tehran. Soleimani, who commanded the elite Quds Force, was responsible for building up Tehran's network of proxy armies across the Middle East. He was a key figure in orchestrating Iran's long-standing campaign to drive US forces out of Iraq. Iran's opponents say its proxies have fuelled conflicts, killing and displacing people in Iraq, Syria and beyond. Tehran says any operations abroad are at the request of governments and that it offers "advisory support". The US defence secretary denied reports the U.S. military was preparing to withdraw from Iraq, where Tehran has vied with Washington for influence since the 2003 US invasion. Revenge "We will take revenge, hard and definitive revenge," the head of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, General Hossein Salami, told the crowds in Kerman before the stampede. Ali Shamkhani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, said 13 "revenge scenarios" were being considered, Fars news agency reported. Even the weakest option would prove "a historic nightmare for the Americans," he said. Iran, whose coastline runs along a Gulf oil shipping route that includes the narrow Strait of Hormuz, has allied forces across the Middle East through which it can act. Representatives from those groups, including the Palestinian group Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah movement, attended funeral events in Tehran. Despite its strident rhetoric, analysts say Iran will want to avoid any conventional conflict with the United States and is likely to focus on asymmetric strikes, such as sabotage or other military action via proxies. Trump has promised to target 52 Iranian sites if Iran retaliates. Reuters and other media reported on Monday that the US military had sent a letter to Iraqi officials informing them US troops were preparing to leave. But US Defense Secretary Mark Esper denied there had been any decision to pull out. About 5,000 US troops are still in Iraq, where there has been a US military presence since Saddam Hussein was toppled in 2003. Friction Iraq's parliament, dominated by lawmakers representing Muslim Shi'ite groups who have been united by the killing of Soleimani alongside an Iraqi militia leader, passed a resolution on Sunday calling for all foreign troops to leave. Iraq's caretaker Prime Minister Abdel Abdul Mahdi told the US ambassador to Baghdad the resolution must be implemented. Friction between Iran and the United States has risen since Washington withdrew in 2018 from a nuclear deal between Tehran and world powers. The United States has imposed new economic sanctions on Iran, slashing Iranian oil exports, and Tehran said on Sunday it was dropping limitations on uranium enrichment, in its latest step back from commitments to the deal. Washington denied a visa to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to allow him to attend a UN Security Council meeting in New York on Thursday, a US official said. Trump's US political rivals have challenged his decision to order the killing of Soleimani and questioned its timing in a US election year. His administration said Soleimani was planning new attacks on US interests without giving evidence. US general Milley said the threat from Soleimani was imminent. "We would have been culpably negligent to the American people had we not made the decision we made," he said. Trump administration officials will provide a classified briefing for US senators on Wednesday on events in Iraq after some lawmakers accused the White House of risking a broad conflict without a strategy.

At least 50 killed in stampede at Iranian general's funeral, burial postponed

The US triggered a geopolitical earthquake by killing a top Iranian General. The whole world is now bracing for the fallout.&nbsp;

World War 3 has been the top trend globally and not without reason. There is a threat of a major escalation.

There's no denying the situation is precarious. People over the world are concerned if there will be a war, and if their country will be sucked into it.

The killing of Qasem Soleimani is no small matter. The US may have labelled him a terrorist, but unlike other terrorists America has killed - Soleimani was a state actor.

He was part of a legitimate government - a cult figure and his killing is an attack on a government. Iran has a difficult needle to the thread and its choices are limited.

Not acting is not an option, but the action comes at a cost. And frankly, Iran doesn't have the money.

The Iranian government cannot afford a war with a country like America. The United States has the world's biggest and best-equipped military force.

The US spends more on defence than any other country in the world and it is number one in the rank of power.

Iran which is slowed by sanctions stands at the 13th position. The military budget of the US is more than six hundred billion dollars.

Iran has a military budget of fourteen billion dollars. The US has over one million active personnel as compared to Iran which has over five hundred thousand active military personnel.

So there will be counter-strikes but they may not qualify as a traditional all-out war.&nbsp;

Experts say Iran will go for American soft targets. As for America, it may not have the appetite for a straightforward invasion from Vietnam to Afghanistan to Iraq.

America has failed miserably every time it has tried to capture territory. It's at best, a very effective disruptor.

The definition of war today has changed, conflicts come in many shapes and with deadlier consequences.

So to answer the question we began with - will this lead to the third world war? No, but that doesn't mean there won't be bloodshed and casualties. 
 
(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The US triggered a geopolitical earthquake by killing a top Iranian General. The whole world is now bracing for the fallout. World War 3 has been the top trend globally and not without reason.

The US triggered a geopolitical earthquake by killing a top Iranian General. The whole world is now bracing for the fallout. World War 3 has been the top trend globally and not without reason. There is a threat of a major escalation. There's no denying the situation is precarious. People over the world are concerned if there will be a war, and if their country will be sucked into it. The killing of Qasem Soleimani is no small matter. The US may have labelled him a terrorist, but unlike other terrorists America has killed - Soleimani was a state actor. He was part of a legitimate government - a cult figure and his killing is an attack on a government. Iran has a difficult needle to the thread and its choices are limited. Not acting is not an option, but the action comes at a cost. And frankly, Iran doesn't have the money. The Iranian government cannot afford a war with a country like America. The United States has the world's biggest and best-equipped military force. The US spends more on defence than any other country in the world and it is number one in the rank of power. Iran which is slowed by sanctions stands at the 13th position. The military budget of the US is more than six hundred billion dollars. Iran has a military budget of fourteen billion dollars. The US has over one million active personnel as compared to Iran which has over five hundred thousand active military personnel. So there will be counter-strikes but they may not qualify as a traditional all-out war. Experts say Iran will go for American soft targets. As for America, it may not have the appetite for a straightforward invasion from Vietnam to Afghanistan to Iraq. America has failed miserably every time it has tried to capture territory. It's at best, a very effective disruptor. The definition of war today has changed, conflicts come in many shapes and with deadlier consequences. So to answer the question we began with - will this lead to the third world war? No, but that doesn't mean there won't be bloodshed and casualties. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: Are US and Iran on the brink of war?

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.

<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>

The US said supporting the &nbsp;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.

<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>

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:

<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>

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," &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."

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.

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

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-criticises-russia-china-at-un-over-failure-to-condemn-baghdad-embassy-attack-272600">Qasem Soleimani</a>, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region.&nbsp;

About 2.3 million people from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-from-philippines-typhoon-hits-50-271165">Philippines</a>&nbsp;are working in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;as domestic helpers, construction&nbsp;workers, engineers, and nurses.

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/take-it-or-leave-it-duterte-on-water-distribution-contract-272682">Rodrigo Duterte</a> has ordered the armed forces to prepare air and naval assets for the evacuation of Filipinos in Iraq, Iran, and nearby Arab countries, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said on Tuesday.

Saying he was deeply worried about the prospect of a "protracted-war", Duterte told reporters he sent a special envoy to Tehran and Baghdad to get assurances that Filipinos would be provided safe passage in case of evacuation.

"We have so many Filipinos working mainly in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East. I am nervous. Iran seems to be hell-bent on retaliation, which I think will come," Duterte said in a speech on Monday.

There are close to 7,000 Filipinos working and living in Iraq and more than 1,000 in Iran, according to government data.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who heads a newly created committee to prepare the evacuation, said the government is readying aircraft to ferry Filipinos in Iraq and Iran who wish to come home or be&nbsp;evacuated to safer areas.

"We can send transportation to fetch them," Lorenza told reporters, adding that hiring a cruise ship was among the things the government was considering to safely&nbsp;evacuate&nbsp;those who would wish to be repatriated.

Iran is considering 13 scenarios to avenge Friday's killing of Qassem Soleimani by a US&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-never-have-a-nuclear-weapon-says-trump-as-tehran-mourns-suleimani-272585">drone attack</a> in Iraq, a senior Tehran official said on Tuesday as the general's body was brought to his hometown for burial.

Filipinos in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;sent home $5.4 billion in remittances from January to October last year, accounting for a fifth of total remittances for that period, making the region a major source of foreign exchange inflows which help drive growth in the consumption-led Philippine economy.

In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-offer-to-host-apec-not-a-good-idea-malaysia-260620">Saifuddin Abdullah</a> advised Malaysians to defer nonessential travel to the region, "in particular areas where the security situation is critical", and for citizens in the region to register with their nearest foreign mission.

"The ministry advises all Malaysians residing, or currently traveling to the region to be more vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security,” Saifuddin told at a press conference.

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region.

As tension is rising between the United States and Iran after the killing of Iranian's top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, the Philippines government is preparing to evacuate thousands of Filipinos working in the Middle East region. About 2.3 million people from the Philippines are working in the Middle East as domestic helpers, construction workers, engineers, and nurses. President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the armed forces to prepare air and naval assets for the evacuation of Filipinos in Iraq, Iran, and nearby Arab countries, his spokesman Salvador Panelo said on Tuesday. Saying he was deeply worried about the prospect of a "protracted-war", Duterte told reporters he sent a special envoy to Tehran and Baghdad to get assurances that Filipinos would be provided safe passage in case of evacuation. "We have so many Filipinos working mainly in the Middle East. I am nervous. Iran seems to be hell-bent on retaliation, which I think will come," Duterte said in a speech on Monday. There are close to 7,000 Filipinos working and living in Iraq and more than 1,000 in Iran, according to government data. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, who heads a newly created committee to prepare the evacuation, said the government is readying aircraft to ferry Filipinos in Iraq and Iran who wish to come home or be evacuated to safer areas. "We can send transportation to fetch them," Lorenza told reporters, adding that hiring a cruise ship was among the things the government was considering to safely evacuate those who would wish to be repatriated. Iran is considering 13 scenarios to avenge Friday's killing of Qassem Soleimani by a US drone attack in Iraq, a senior Tehran official said on Tuesday as the general's body was brought to his hometown for burial. Filipinos in the Middle East sent home $5.4 billion in remittances from January to October last year, accounting for a fifth of total remittances for that period, making the region a major source of foreign exchange inflows which help drive growth in the consumption-led Philippine economy. In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah advised Malaysians to defer nonessential travel to the region, "in particular areas where the security situation is critical", and for citizens in the region to register with their nearest foreign mission. "The ministry advises all Malaysians residing, or currently traveling to the region to be more vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security,” Saifuddin told at a press conference.

Philippines prepares for 'evacuation' of citizens in Middle East

The yen and other safe-haven currencies were in demand on Monday, along with assets such as gold, as investors fretted that the killing of Iran's most prominent military commander by the United States could trigger a broader Middle East conflict. However, the Indian Rupee has slipped further since the conflict broke out from 71 rupees and 13 paise on New Year's. It has now risen to around 72 rupees against the US dollar. #USAirStike #USIranTension #IndianRupee #USDollar

Amid US-Iran tensions Indian rupee slips further

qasem-soleimani

Qasem Soleimani, News on Qasem Soleimani, stories on Qasem Soleimani, articles on Qasem Soleimani, Qasem Soleimani stories at Wion, Qasem Soleimani news, Qasem Soleimani latest news

qasem soleimani