The Israeli forces conducted a targeted, precision strike on a hotel room in central Beirut overnight on Sunday and said that five top commanders in the Lebanese Quds Force were killed. The IDF said the targeted commanders in the Lebanese Corps of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards “operated to advance terror attacks against Israel and its civilians, while also operating for the IRGC in Iran.”&nbsp;The Quds Force commanders were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The attack targeted one of the rooms in the hotel. The IDF identified the five killed commanders as Majid Hassini, a senior moneyman in the Lebanon Corps, who the IDF says was responsible for transferring funds from Iran to proxy groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah and Hamas; Ali Reza Bi-Azar, chief of intelligence in the Lebanon Corps; Ahmad Rasouli, chief of intelligence in the Palestine Corps; Hossein Ahmadlou, a lower-ranking intelligence operative in the Lebanon Corps; and Abu Muhammad Ali, Hezbollah’s representative in the Palestine Corps.&nbsp;Lebanon said that four were killed and 10 injured in the attack and that security forces blocked access to the area.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-s-military-warns-it-will-pursue-iran-s-next-supreme-leader-successors-1772972968321">Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors</a>&nbsp;The IDF added that due steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.&nbsp;The IDF spokesperson’s office said, “The IDF conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders in the IRGC’s Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps who operated in Beirut. The commanders of the Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps operated to advance terror attacks against the state of Israel and its civilians, while operating simultaneously for the IRGC in Iran.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-selects-its-new-supreme-leader-amid-raging-war-with-us-israel-1772961973135">Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel</a>&nbsp;The IDF statement added that the Iranian terror regime operates systemically in the heart of the civilian population in Iran and Lebanon, cynically exploiting the civilian population as human shields to advance terror attacks.&nbsp;“The Lebanon Corp connects the Hezbollah terrorist organization and the Iranian terror regime, supports Hezbollah force-building, and functions as the connection between senior IRGC personnel and Hezbollah leadership.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-moment-of-truth-is-approaching-for-iranian-people-war-will-continue-netanyahu-1772916339670">‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu</a>&nbsp;The strike was on the Ramada Hotel in central Beirut, the first such attack in the heart of the Lebanese capital since Hezbollah started attacking Israel in response to Operation Roaring Lion against Iran.The hotel was housing displaced people fleeing the war in southern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs.&nbsp;The IDF said earlier that it had launched a new “wave of strikes” against Beirut, saying it was targeting the southern suburbs of the capital, a stronghold of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah group.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-war-impact-kuwait-declares-force-majeure-announces-crude-oil-output-reduction-1772912837854">Iran War impact: Kuwait declares force majeure, announces crude oil output reduction</a>&nbsp;The Lebanese government has also slammed Hezbollah for its renewed attacks on Israel, accusing it of dragging Lebanon into a regional war.

The key commanders of the Quds Force were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The Israeli forces said steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.

The Israeli forces conducted a targeted, precision strike on a hotel room in central Beirut overnight on Sunday and said that five top commanders in the Lebanese Quds Force were killed. The IDF said the targeted commanders in the Lebanese Corps of the Quds Force of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards “operated to advance terror attacks against Israel and its civilians, while also operating for the IRGC in Iran.” The Quds Force commanders were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The attack targeted one of the rooms in the hotel. The IDF identified the five killed commanders as Majid Hassini, a senior moneyman in the Lebanon Corps, who the IDF says was responsible for transferring funds from Iran to proxy groups in Lebanon, including Hezbollah and Hamas; Ali Reza Bi-Azar, chief of intelligence in the Lebanon Corps; Ahmad Rasouli, chief of intelligence in the Palestine Corps; Hossein Ahmadlou, a lower-ranking intelligence operative in the Lebanon Corps; and Abu Muhammad Ali, Hezbollah’s representative in the Palestine Corps. Lebanon said that four were killed and 10 injured in the attack and that security forces blocked access to the area. Also Read: Israel’s military warns it will ‘pursue’ Iran’s next supreme leader, successors The IDF added that due steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance. The IDF spokesperson’s office said, “The IDF conducted a precise strike targeting key commanders in the IRGC’s Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps who operated in Beirut. The commanders of the Quds Force’s Lebanon Corps operated to advance terror attacks against the state of Israel and its civilians, while operating simultaneously for the IRGC in Iran.” Also Read: Iran selects its new supreme leader amid raging war with US, Israel The IDF statement added that the Iranian terror regime operates systemically in the heart of the civilian population in Iran and Lebanon, cynically exploiting the civilian population as human shields to advance terror attacks. “The Lebanon Corp connects the Hezbollah terrorist organization and the Iranian terror regime, supports Hezbollah force-building, and functions as the connection between senior IRGC personnel and Hezbollah leadership.” Also Read: ‘Moment of truth is approaching for Iranian people, war will continue’: Netanyahu The strike was on the Ramada Hotel in central Beirut, the first such attack in the heart of the Lebanese capital since Hezbollah started attacking Israel in response to Operation Roaring Lion against Iran. The hotel was housing displaced people fleeing the war in southern Lebanon and Beirut's southern suburbs. The IDF said earlier that it had launched a new “wave of strikes” against Beirut, saying it was targeting the southern suburbs of the capital, a stronghold of the pro-Iranian Hezbollah group. Also Read: Iran War impact: Kuwait declares force majeure, announces crude oil output reduction The Lebanese government has also slammed Hezbollah for its renewed attacks on Israel, accusing it of dragging Lebanon into a regional war.

The key commanders of the Quds Force were in a hotel in the Raouche district of central Beirut when they were attacked after midnight. The Israeli forces said steps were taken prior to the strike to mitigate harm to civilians, including the use of precise munitions and aerial surveillance.

Israel attacks top commanders of IRGC’s Quds Force in Beirut hotel, five killed

Within the dark and intricate structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran's military and security establishment, four dominant forces constitute the strength of the state: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its special arm the Quds Force, the volunteer Basij militia, and the regular Iranian Army, also referred to as Artesh.&nbsp;Each has a separate origin, purpose, and command structure. Though all are nominally dedicated to the defense of Iran's sovereignty, their functions differ starkly in practice and ideology. Together, they create a layered and frequently overlapping system intended not only for external defense, but for survival of the regime, foreign manipulation, and domestic control.<h2>The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)</h2>Formed in the wake of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Sepah-e Pasdaran-e Enqelab-e Islami) was founded by Ayatollah Khomeini to protect the revolution from internal as well as external enemies.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was intended as a balance against the old Iranian military, which the new regime worried would still be loyal to the Shah or Western philosophy.&nbsp;Unlike the Artesh, a professional and traditional military organisation, the IRGC is an ideologically motivated institution that owes its loyalty not to the government elected, but directly to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;Its role is to safeguard Islamic values, propagate Iran's revolutionary ideology, and guarantee the survival of the regime.&nbsp;Decades have seen the IRGC grow into a huge military-industrial complex. It has its own land forces, navy, aerospace unit (including Iran's missile program), intelligence unit, and cyber units. It economically dominates large sectors of the Iranian economy by means of front companies and state-sponsored foundations.&nbsp;It is politically rooted to a great extent. Large numbers of members of the executive and judicial branches as well as the parliament have been IRGC veterans, and the IRGC is responsible for formulating national strategy.<h2>Quds force</h2>As the premier extraterritorial force of the IRGC, the Quds Force (Sepah-e Qods) conducts foreign operations, clandestine activities, and proxy warfare.&nbsp;&nbsp;Its existence was formally recognised in the late 1980s, and its stature grew exponentially under General Qassem Soleimani, who died in a US drone attack in Baghdad in 2020.&nbsp;The Quds force has provided the mission of exporting Iran's ideological and strategic interests outside of its borders. It offers weapons, finance, and training to a broad range of non-state actors and militant groups all across the Middle East, ranging from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Shia militias in Iraq, the Houthis in Yemen, and pro-Assad forces in Syria.&nbsp;With a history of strategic patience and asymmetric warfare, the Quds Force works through diplomatic covers, local militias, and covert networks. It is both a foreign policy instrument and a military force, combining intelligence operations with presence on the battlefield.<h2>Basij</h2>Basij, or Basij-e Mostaz'afin ("Mobilization of the Oppressed"), is an IRGC-controlled paramilitary volunteer militia.&nbsp;&nbsp;Established in 1979 by the directive of Khomeini, the Basij was instrumental in the Iran-Iraq War, where thousands of Basij members were involved in human-wave attacks.&nbsp;Nowadays, the Basij acts as an interior security force, responsible for policing moral behavior, repressing dissent, surveillance over universities and neighborhoods, and enlisting regime support.&nbsp;&nbsp;It is highly integrated into civilian society, with units in schools, mosques, factories, and government departments.&nbsp;In times of civil unrest—like the 2009 Green Movement protests and the nationwide protests in recent years—the Basij are usually the first line of response from the regime, making arrests, infiltrating demonstrations, and cracking down on crowds.&nbsp;Though less heavily armed than regular army units, the Basij have strength in numbers, ideological indoctrination, and widespread grassroots presence. It also serves as a social control mechanism and vehicle for political mobilisation during election times.<h2>Artesh</h2>Officially referred to as the Artesh-e Jomhouri-ye Eslami-ye Iran, the Artesh is Iran's regular army, existing before the revolution.&nbsp;&nbsp;Comprising four branches, they include Ground Forces, Air Force, Navy, and Air Defense. Following the revolution, the Artesh was suspicious to the clerical leadership and was purposefully undermined in favor of the IRGC.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nevertheless, it continued to be the primary line of defense against conventional military threats, especially on Iran's borders and in the Persian Gulf.&nbsp;In contrast to the IRGC, the Artesh is considered more professional and apolitical, with little role in Iran's internal politics or foreign escapades. It has fewer economic assets and is more dependent on the Ministry of Defense.&nbsp;&nbsp;As much less ideologically charged, it is hampered by older equipment and limited modernization for decades of sanctions. The Artesh is also responsible for disaster relief, logistics, and border control operations, and frequently works together with the IRGC on large exercises, although tensions between the two branches continue.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic. The IRGC and related forces are the ideological core of the regime, while the Artesh fills conventional military roles.

Understanding Iran’s military structure: IRGC, Quds Force, Basij, and the Army. Who are they and what are their roles?

Within the dark and intricate structure of the Islamic Republic of Iran's military and security establishment, four dominant forces constitute the strength of the state: the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), its special arm the Quds Force, the volunteer Basij militia, and the regular Iranian Army, also referred to as Artesh. Each has a separate origin, purpose, and command structure. Though all are nominally dedicated to the defense of Iran's sovereignty, their functions differ starkly in practice and ideology. Together, they create a layered and frequently overlapping system intended not only for external defense, but for survival of the regime, foreign manipulation, and domestic control. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Formed in the wake of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (Sepah-e Pasdaran-e Enqelab-e Islami) was founded by Ayatollah Khomeini to protect the revolution from internal as well as external enemies. It was intended as a balance against the old Iranian military, which the new regime worried would still be loyal to the Shah or Western philosophy. Unlike the Artesh, a professional and traditional military organisation, the IRGC is an ideologically motivated institution that owes its loyalty not to the government elected, but directly to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Its role is to safeguard Islamic values, propagate Iran's revolutionary ideology, and guarantee the survival of the regime. Decades have seen the IRGC grow into a huge military-industrial complex. It has its own land forces, navy, aerospace unit (including Iran's missile program), intelligence unit, and cyber units. It economically dominates large sectors of the Iranian economy by means of front companies and state-sponsored foundations. It is politically rooted to a great extent. Large numbers of members of the executive and judicial branches as well as the parliament have been IRGC veterans, and the IRGC is responsible for formulating national strategy. Quds force As the premier extraterritorial force of the IRGC, the Quds Force (Sepah-e Qods) conducts foreign operations, clandestine activities, and proxy warfare. Its existence was formally recognised in the late 1980s, and its stature grew exponentially under General Qassem Soleimani, who died in a US drone attack in Baghdad in 2020. The Quds force has provided the mission of exporting Iran's ideological and strategic interests outside of its borders. It offers weapons, finance, and training to a broad range of non-state actors and militant groups all across the Middle East, ranging from Hezbollah in Lebanon, Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Palestine, Shia militias in Iraq, the Houthis in Yemen, and pro-Assad forces in Syria. With a history of strategic patience and asymmetric warfare, the Quds Force works through diplomatic covers, local militias, and covert networks. It is both a foreign policy instrument and a military force, combining intelligence operations with presence on the battlefield. Basij Basij, or Basij-e Mostaz'afin ("Mobilization of the Oppressed"), is an IRGC-controlled paramilitary volunteer militia. Established in 1979 by the directive of Khomeini, the Basij was instrumental in the Iran-Iraq War, where thousands of Basij members were involved in human-wave attacks. Nowadays, the Basij acts as an interior security force, responsible for policing moral behavior, repressing dissent, surveillance over universities and neighborhoods, and enlisting regime support. It is highly integrated into civilian society, with units in schools, mosques, factories, and government departments. In times of civil unrest—like the 2009 Green Movement protests and the nationwide protests in recent years—the Basij are usually the first line of response from the regime, making arrests, infiltrating demonstrations, and cracking down on crowds. Though less heavily armed than regular army units, the Basij have strength in numbers, ideological indoctrination, and widespread grassroots presence. It also serves as a social control mechanism and vehicle for political mobilisation during election times. Artesh Officially referred to as the Artesh-e Jomhouri-ye Eslami-ye Iran, the Artesh is Iran's regular army, existing before the revolution. Comprising four branches, they include Ground Forces, Air Force, Navy, and Air Defense. Following the revolution, the Artesh was suspicious to the clerical leadership and was purposefully undermined in favor of the IRGC. Nevertheless, it continued to be the primary line of defense against conventional military threats, especially on Iran's borders and in the Persian Gulf. In contrast to the IRGC, the Artesh is considered more professional and apolitical, with little role in Iran's internal politics or foreign escapades. It has fewer economic assets and is more dependent on the Ministry of Defense. As much less ideologically charged, it is hampered by older equipment and limited modernization for decades of sanctions. The Artesh is also responsible for disaster relief, logistics, and border control operations, and frequently works together with the IRGC on large exercises, although tensions between the two branches continue. Conclusion Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic. The IRGC and related forces are the ideological core of the regime, while the Artesh fills conventional military roles.

Iran's military and security establishment is more than a defense establishment—it is a complex network of ideological, political, and coercive power intended to protect the Islamic Republic against all threats, foreign and domestic.

The chief of Iran’s elite Quds Force made an urgent visit to Iraq in late January and forced allied militant groups to halt attacks on US troops, Reuters reported Sunday (Feb 18). The move came after Washington DC blamed the groups for killing three US soldiers in an attack on a military outpost in Jordan.

Esmail Qaani is believed to have warned the allied groups that directly attacking US risked a tougher response from US. He mentioned potential US retaliation, including targeting of key leaders, infrastructure and even a direct strike on Iran.

It was only after this visit that the elite Iran-backed group Kataib Hezbollah announced it was halting attacks on the US. "Without Qaani's direct intervention it would have been impossible to convince Kataib Hezbollah to halt its military operations to deescalate the tension,"&nbsp;a senior commander in one of the Iran-aligned Iraqi armed groups was quoted as saying by Reuters.

<h2>Qaani didn’t leave Baghdad airport</h2>

Qaani made the quick visit and held the meeting at Baghdad Airport only "for strict security reasons and fearing for his safety," an Iraqi security source was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw0zwyumly2RUq4PD1A0sDj8" data-ved="2ahUKEwjD0q2c6rSEAxW3xDgGHU17DooQxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-attacked-two-major-iranian-pipelines-disrupted-supply-suggests-report-691162" jsname="YKoRaf">Israel attacked two major Iranian pipelines, disrupted supply: Report</a>

The 2020 strike by the US that killed Qaani’s predecessor, Qassem Soleimani, also took place near the Baghdad airport.

"The Iranians learned their lesson from the liquidation of Soleimani and did not want this to be repeated," the source said.

<h2>Stance of Iraqi government</h2>

The Iraqi government is considered a close ally of both the US and Iran and is believed to have pressed Tehran to rein in attacks on US to prevent the country from becoming a battleground of foreign powers.

Watch:&nbsp;Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

<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-foreign-minister-visits-syria-meets-syrian-president-bashar-al-assad-689414/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani "has worked with all relevant parties both inside and outside Iraq, warning them," that escalation "will destabilise Iraq and the region," Sudani's foreign affairs advisor Farhad Alaadin told Reuters.

<h2>US military presence in Iraq</h2>

The US has nearly 2,500 troops stationed in Iraq and another 900 in Syria on the so-called ‘advise and assist mission.’

They are part of an international coalition deployed in 2014 to fight Islamic State, mainly in the west of the country and eastern Syria.

(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

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

Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25).

IRGC’s elite forces trained the Jihadis in Iran up to a month before the deadly assault of October 7, which saw more than 1,000 Israelis and foreign nationals killed.

The report noted that several top Iranian and Hamas leaders attended the joint drills, including the Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani.

<h2>Iran’s role in Hamas’ assault</h2>

Earlier, the WSJ reported that Iranian security officials assisted Hamas in launching the deadly assault on the Jewish nation. In fact, the green light also came from Tehran during a meeting in Beirut just days before the attack.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-18-days-of-israel-hamas-war-sees-more-palestinian-deaths-than-15-years-of-conflict-combined-651279">Also read:&nbsp;Data Lab | 18 days of Israel-Hamas war sees more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of conflict combined</a>

“Details of the operation were refined during several meetings in Beirut attended by IRGC officers and representatives of four Iran-backed militant groups, including Hamas, which holds power in Gaza, and Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group and political faction in Lebanon,” WSJ reported citing members of Hamas and Hezbollah.

<h2>USA’s denial</h2>

Despite these reports hinting at the direct involvement of the Iranian regime in the Hamas’ assault, US officials maintain they don’t have enough evidence to believe Tehran had any role to play.

“We don’t have any information at this time to corroborate this account,” said a top US official.

Watch:&nbsp;Israel to flood Hamas' hostage tunnels

<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/israel-to-flood-hamas-hostage-tunnels-preparing-to-turn-gaza-into-rubble-us-journalist-651137/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

In an interview with CNN that aired previously, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “We have not yet seen evidence that Iran directed or was behind this particular attack, but there is certainly a long relationship.”

<h2>Statement by Hamas and Iran</h2>

Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player.

Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.”

Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them.

“The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25).

Iran’s Quds Force reportedly imparted specialised training to at least 500 Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad militants as recently as in September, reported Wall Street Journal on Wednesday (Oct 25). IRGC’s elite forces trained the Jihadis in Iran up to a month before the deadly assault of October 7, which saw more than 1,000 Israelis and foreign nationals killed. The report noted that several top Iranian and Hamas leaders attended the joint drills, including the Quds Force chief Esmail Qaani. Iran’s role in Hamas’ assault Earlier, the WSJ reported that Iranian security officials assisted Hamas in launching the deadly assault on the Jewish nation. In fact, the green light also came from Tehran during a meeting in Beirut just days before the attack. Also read: Data Lab | 18 days of Israel-Hamas war sees more Palestinian deaths than 15 years of conflict combined “Details of the operation were refined during several meetings in Beirut attended by IRGC officers and representatives of four Iran-backed militant groups, including Hamas, which holds power in Gaza, and Hezbollah, a Shiite militant group and political faction in Lebanon,” WSJ reported citing members of Hamas and Hezbollah. USA’s denial Despite these reports hinting at the direct involvement of the Iranian regime in the Hamas’ assault, US officials maintain they don’t have enough evidence to believe Tehran had any role to play. “We don’t have any information at this time to corroborate this account,” said a top US official. Watch: Israel to flood Hamas' hostage tunnels × In an interview with CNN that aired previously, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: “We have not yet seen evidence that Iran directed or was behind this particular attack, but there is certainly a long relationship.” Statement by Hamas and Iran Hamas claims it planned the attack on its own, without any support from a foreign player. Mahmoud Mirdawi, a senior Hamas official, said, “This is a Palestinian and Hamas decision.” Iran also made clear that it stood by Hamas’ actions but didn’t direct them. “The decisions made by the Palestinian resistance are fiercely autonomous and unwaveringly aligned with the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people,” a spokesman for the Iranian mission at the UN said. “We are not involved in Palestine’s response, as it is taken solely by Palestine itself,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran’s elite Quds Force trained 500 Hamas terrorists before Oct 7 attack: Report

Iran's underground drone fleet in Zagros mountain: See pictures

Iran's Deputy Vice President for Legal Affairs has said that granting immunity to perpetrators behind the killing of Qasem Soleimani threatens international peace.

He has written a letter to the United Nations General Assembly to seek a resolution on Soleimani's assassination.

In the letter he has written, ''It is highly proposed that the universally respected General Assembly, while within condemning the state-centric assassination of the foreign state and diplomatic officials, take all possible legal initiatives within its authorities, including the adoption of a resolution to prevent such crimes in the future.''

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-thousands-mark-2020-killing-of-iran-general-qassem-soleimani-441653">Also read |&nbsp;Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani</a>

He has highlighted that ''Direct responsibility of the commission of this violent crime was subsequently accepted by the President of the United States of America.''

Tehran is seeking to preserve its deep influence in Iraq while also navigating tense negotiations over its nuclear ambitions with the United States.

Thousands of supporters of an Iraqi alliance of armed groups marked the upcoming second anniversary of a US drone strike that killed the revered Iranian commander.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-general-qassem-soleimani-271786">Also read |&nbsp;'He is James Bond, Rommel and Lady Gaga rolled into one': Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people</a>

Chanting "Death to America", the Hashed al-Shaabi loyalists filled a Baghdad square to honour Soleimani, who headed the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, until his death on January 3, 2020.

Washington had accused him of masterminding attacks by Iranian-aligned militias on US forces in the region.&nbsp;

The 62-year-old general strengthened Iran's ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syria's government and Shi'ite militia groups in Iraq.

Over two decades, Soleimani was at the forefront of projecting the Islamic Republic's military influence across the Middle East, acquiring celebrity status at home and abroad.

The Pentagon said the strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans.

The United States designated the Revolutionary Guards a foreign terrorist organisation in 2019, part of a campaign of maximum pressure to force Iran to negotiate on its ballistic missile program and nuclear policy.

Soleimani was responsible for clandestine overseas operations and was often seen on battlefields guiding Iraqi Shi'ite groups in the war against Islamic State.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Iran's Deputy Vice President for Legal Affairs has said that granting immunity to perpetrators behind the killing of Qasem Soleimani threatens international peace.

Iran's Deputy Vice President for Legal Affairs has said that granting immunity to perpetrators behind the killing of Qasem Soleimani threatens international peace. He has written a letter to the United Nations General Assembly to seek a resolution on Soleimani's assassination. In the letter he has written, ''It is highly proposed that the universally respected General Assembly, while within condemning the state-centric assassination of the foreign state and diplomatic officials, take all possible legal initiatives within its authorities, including the adoption of a resolution to prevent such crimes in the future.'' Also read | Iraq: Thousands mark 2020 killing of Iran general Qassem Soleimani He has highlighted that ''Direct responsibility of the commission of this violent crime was subsequently accepted by the President of the United States of America.'' Tehran is seeking to preserve its deep influence in Iraq while also navigating tense negotiations over its nuclear ambitions with the United States. Thousands of supporters of an Iraqi alliance of armed groups marked the upcoming second anniversary of a US drone strike that killed the revered Iranian commander. Also read | 'He is James Bond, Rommel and Lady Gaga rolled into one': Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people Chanting "Death to America", the Hashed al-Shaabi loyalists filled a Baghdad square to honour Soleimani, who headed the Quds Force, the foreign operations arm of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, until his death on January 3, 2020. Washington had accused him of masterminding attacks by Iranian-aligned militias on US forces in the region. The 62-year-old general strengthened Iran's ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syria's government and Shi'ite militia groups in Iraq. Over two decades, Soleimani was at the forefront of projecting the Islamic Republic's military influence across the Middle East, acquiring celebrity status at home and abroad. The Pentagon said the strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans. The United States designated the Revolutionary Guards a foreign terrorist organisation in 2019, part of a campaign of maximum pressure to force Iran to negotiate on its ballistic missile program and nuclear policy. Soleimani was responsible for clandestine overseas operations and was often seen on battlefields guiding Iraqi Shi'ite groups in the war against Islamic State. (With inputs from agencies)

Immunity to perpetrators behind killing of Soleimani threatens international peace, says Iran

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands.

Brigadier General Esmail Ghaani, the commander of the Quds Force made the comments during a ceremony in Iran's capital Tehran.

Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have established ceasefire last week but tensions are still high in the region. The ceasefire halted the 11-day fighting between the two warring parties that saw rocket attacks and airstrikes causing casualties on both sides.

Iran supports Hamas that rules the Gaza Strip. Iran does not recognise Tehran.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-fighters-display-weapons-in-gaza-after-truce-with-israel-388205">Hamas fighters display weapons in Gaza after truce with Israel&nbsp;</a>

Israeli strikes on Gaza during the 11-day conflict killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says.

Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded.

There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians.

(With inputs from agencies)

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands.

Commander of Iran's Quds Force on Saturday asked Israelis to "go back" to Europe and USA and "rebuild lives" there. He also said that Palestinians were ready to take back control of occupied lands. Brigadier General Esmail Ghaani, the commander of the Quds Force made the comments during a ceremony in Iran's capital Tehran. Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas have established ceasefire last week but tensions are still high in the region. The ceasefire halted the 11-day fighting between the two warring parties that saw rocket attacks and airstrikes causing casualties on both sides. Iran supports Hamas that rules the Gaza Strip. Iran does not recognise Tehran. Also Read | Hamas fighters display weapons in Gaza after truce with Israel Israeli strikes on Gaza during the 11-day conflict killed 248 Palestinians, including 66 children, and have wounded more than 1,900 people, the Gaza health ministry says. Rockets and other fire from Gaza claimed 12 lives in Israel, including one child and an Arab-Israeli teenager, an Israeli soldier, one Indian, and two Thai nationals, medics say. Some 357 people in Israel were wounded. There is controversy about how many of those killed in Gaza were combatants, and how many were civilians. (With inputs from agencies)

Israelis should 'go back' to Europe, US: Iran's Quds Force commander

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-esmail-qaani-a-look-at-new-leader-of-irans-quds-force-272083">Also Read:&nbsp;Man who replaces Soleimani -&nbsp;Meet Iran's Quds Force's new chief, Esmail Qaani</a>

The new sanctions come three weeks after the US killing of the Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in a missile strike that Washington claimed was preemptive.

The US Treasury identified four entities -- two based in Hong Kong, one in Shanghai and another in Dubai -- saying they had together transferred "hundreds of millions of dollars' worth" of exports from the National Iranian Oil Company, thereby helping finance the Quds Force.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-gave-dramatic-account-of-soleimanis-last-minutes-before-death-report-275139">Also Read: Trump gave dramatic account of Soleimani's last minutes before death</a>

"Iran's petrochemical and petroleum sectors are a primary source of funding for the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities and enable its persistent use of violence against its own people," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

Washington has recently also targeted other Iranian entities in the commodities, including metals companies and oil companies accused of supporting the Revolutionary Guards.

The firms targeted Tuesday are Triliance Petrochemical Co Ltd and Sage Energy HK Limited, both in Hong Kong, Peakview Industry Co Limited in Shanghai and Beneathco DMCC of Dubai.

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards.

The United States on Thursday slapped economic sanctions on four petroleum firms that US officials accuse of moving oil exports for the Quds Force of Iran's Revolutionary Guards. Also Read: Man who replaces Soleimani - Meet Iran's Quds Force's new chief, Esmail Qaani The new sanctions come three weeks after the US killing of the Quds Force commander Qasem Soleimani in a missile strike that Washington claimed was preemptive. The US Treasury identified four entities -- two based in Hong Kong, one in Shanghai and another in Dubai -- saying they had together transferred "hundreds of millions of dollars' worth" of exports from the National Iranian Oil Company, thereby helping finance the Quds Force. Also Read: Trump gave dramatic account of Soleimani's last minutes before death "Iran's petrochemical and petroleum sectors are a primary source of funding for the Iranian regime's global terrorist activities and enable its persistent use of violence against its own people," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. Washington has recently also targeted other Iranian entities in the commodities, including metals companies and oil companies accused of supporting the Revolutionary Guards. The firms targeted Tuesday are Triliance Petrochemical Co Ltd and Sage Energy HK Limited, both in Hong Kong, Peakview Industry Co Limited in Shanghai and Beneathco DMCC of Dubai.

US sanctions 4 petroleum firms linked to Iran's Quds Force

An American airstrike last week that killed Iranian Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis drove the already politically fractured region into an entirely new era of high tensions and instability.

President Trump celebrated the assassination of Soleimani as a big win for America, stating that the slain commander of the Iran Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force had put in harm's way multiple American lives.

As Iran promises revenge, people of the country came out by the&nbsp;millions to protest the American operation and pay their respects to the martyred 'Hero of the Iranian people'. Here is what we know:

<ul>
	<li>Protests against US operations in Iraq and Syria are met with heavy protests by Iran-backed militias at the US embassy in Baghdad, ultimately leading to its evacuation.</li>
	<li>US airstrikes on January 3, 2020, led to the death of IRG Quds Force commander Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Popular Mobilization Forces leader&nbsp;Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis outside of Baghdad International Airport.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="US airstrike" data-align="center" data-caption="A picture published by the media office of the Iraqi military's joint operations forces on their official Facebook page shows a destroyed vehicle on fire following a US strike on January 3, 2020 on Baghdad international airport road in which top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was killed along with eight others. (Photo courtesy: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="461e31a4-9f14-48c8-8c2f-4e7b93c4d750" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_36.jpg" />
A picture published by the media office of the Iraqi military's joint operations forces on their official Facebook page shows a destroyed vehicle on fire following a US strike on January 3, 2020 on Baghdad international airport road in which top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was killed along with eight others. (Photo courtesy: AFP)

<ul>
	<li>The US State Department issues a travel advisory urging all American citizens to leave Iraq by any means.</li>
	<li>President Donald Trump celebrates the assassination of the Quds Force commander, whose actions&nbsp;had killed Americans and had put many&nbsp;lives at stake. He added that the General had plotted&nbsp;terror attacks in New Delhi as well as London.</li>
</ul>

Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/soleimani-contributed-to-plotting-terror-attacks-in-new-delhi-london-trump-272027">Soleimani contributed to plotting terror attacks in New Delhi, London: Trump</a>

<ul>
	<li>Secretary of State Michael Pompeo defends his President's actions and statements.</li>
	<li>Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei instates a period of mourning across Iran, declares Soleimani a martyred 'Hero' and vows revenge.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="Khamenei" data-align="center" data-caption="An image grab from an Iran Press video shows Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (L), accompanied by Ebrahim Raisi, Chief Justice of Iran , weeping as he recites a prayer in front of the coffin of slain Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani duing a funeral procession in the capital Tehran on January 6, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b6f1c39-f089-4448-8369-1423f5425033" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_40.jpg" />
An image grab from an Iran Press video shows Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (L), accompanied by Ebrahim Raisi, Chief Justice of Iran , weeping as he recites a prayer in front of the coffin of slain Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani duing a funeral procession in the capital Tehran on January 6, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP)

<ul>
	<li>Millions of people across the country pour into the streets to mourn the loss of one of the most important figures in the country. The sheer number of people represent the General's death the most devastating for the country since the demise of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.</li>
	<li>For the first time in the history of Iran, a red flag was raised over the Holy Dome of Jamkaran Mosque symbolising a severe battle to come.</li>
</ul>

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-raises-the-revenge-flag-over-mosque-after-soleimanis-killing-by-us-272265/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Iran raises the 'revenge flag' over mosque after Soleimani's killing by U.S.</a>

<ul>
	<li>On January 5, 2020, the Iraqi parliament voted to expel American troops stationed in the country, a move highly contested by American President Trump.</li>
	<li>Leaders across the world are calling for a de-escalation of tensions and suggest to utilise all diplomatic and non-physical means to settle and&nbsp;prevent any further conflict.</li>
</ul>
<img alt="Protests" data-align="center" data-caption="Iranian mourners gather during the final stage of funeral processions for slain top general Qasem Soleimani, in his hometown Kerman on January 7, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e957cb7c-3cc4-4494-abb9-db2a1d5c99ca" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29_27.jpg" />
Iranian mourners gather during the final stage of funeral processions for slain top general Qasem Soleimani, in his hometown Kerman on January 7, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP)

<ul>
	<li>On January 6, 2020, addressing the crowd during a funeral procession was the General's&nbsp;daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, calling the American&nbsp;President ‘Crazy Trump', adding:&nbsp;"Don’t think everything is over".&nbsp;She&nbsp;promised "dark days"&nbsp;for the US in the days ahead.</li>
	<li>The new head of the Iran Revolutionary Guards'&nbsp;Quds force Esmail Qaani vowed to expel the United States from the region.</li>
	<li>On January 7, 2019, 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'.</li>
</ul>

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/qasem-soleimani-the-latest-file-terminated-at-cia-headquarters-271942#dear-general-271919">Qasem Soleimani: The latest file terminated at CIA Headquarters</a>

In Pics:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/soleimanis-killing-how-was-the-operation-carried-out-and-what-are-the-consequences-272077">Soleimani's killing: How was the operation carried out and what are the consequences?</a>

Read:&nbsp;<a href="Iranians gather for Soleimani's funeral procession in hometown Kerman">Iranians gather for Soleimani's funeral procession in hometown Kerman</a>

Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-designates-all-us-forces-as-terrorists-for-killing-general-soleimani-272688">Iran designates all US forces as 'terrorists' for killing general Soleimani</a>

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/ayatollah-khamenei-vows-severe-revenge-for-soleimani-killing-271851/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Ayatollah Khamenei vows ‘severe revenge’ for Soleimani killing</a>

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/funeral-procession-of-qasem-soleimani-thousands-iranian-mourn-soleimanis-death-272222/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;">Funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani, thousands Iranian mourn Soleimani's death</a>

&nbsp;

An American airstrike last week that killed Iranian Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis drove the already politically fractured region into an entirely new era of high tensions and instability.

An American airstrike last week that killed Iranian Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis drove the already politically fractured region into an entirely new era of high tensions and instability. President Trump celebrated the assassination of Soleimani as a big win for America, stating that the slain commander of the Iran Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force had put in harm's way multiple American lives. As Iran promises revenge, people of the country came out by the millions to protest the American operation and pay their respects to the martyred 'Hero of the Iranian people'. Here is what we know: Protests against US operations in Iraq and Syria are met with heavy protests by Iran-backed militias at the US embassy in Baghdad, ultimately leading to its evacuation. US airstrikes on January 3, 2020, led to the death of IRG Quds Force commander Major-General Qasim Soleimani and Popular Mobilization Forces leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis outside of Baghdad International Airport. A picture published by the media office of the Iraqi military's joint operations forces on their official Facebook page shows a destroyed vehicle on fire following a US strike on January 3, 2020 on Baghdad international airport road in which top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani was killed along with eight others. (Photo courtesy: AFP) The US State Department issues a travel advisory urging all American citizens to leave Iraq by any means. President Donald Trump celebrates the assassination of the Quds Force commander, whose actions had killed Americans and had put many lives at stake. He added that the General had plotted terror attacks in New Delhi as well as London. Read: Soleimani contributed to plotting terror attacks in New Delhi, London: Trump Secretary of State Michael Pompeo defends his President's actions and statements. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei instates a period of mourning across Iran, declares Soleimani a martyred 'Hero' and vows revenge. An image grab from an Iran Press video shows Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (L), accompanied by Ebrahim Raisi, Chief Justice of Iran , weeping as he recites a prayer in front of the coffin of slain Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani duing a funeral procession in the capital Tehran on January 6, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP) Millions of people across the country pour into the streets to mourn the loss of one of the most important figures in the country. The sheer number of people represent the General's death the most devastating for the country since the demise of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. For the first time in the history of Iran, a red flag was raised over the Holy Dome of Jamkaran Mosque symbolising a severe battle to come. Watch: Iran raises the 'revenge flag' over mosque after Soleimani's killing by U.S. On January 5, 2020, the Iraqi parliament voted to expel American troops stationed in the country, a move highly contested by American President Trump. Leaders across the world are calling for a de-escalation of tensions and suggest to utilise all diplomatic and non-physical means to settle and prevent any further conflict. Iranian mourners gather during the final stage of funeral processions for slain top general Qasem Soleimani, in his hometown Kerman on January 7, 2020. (Photo courtesy: AFP) On January 6, 2020, addressing the crowd during a funeral procession was the General's daughter, Zeinab Soleimani, calling the American President ‘Crazy Trump', adding: "Don’t think everything is over". She promised "dark days" for the US in the days ahead. The new head of the Iran Revolutionary Guards' Quds force Esmail Qaani vowed to expel the United States from the region. On January 7, 2019, 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'. In Pics: Qasem Soleimani: The latest file terminated at CIA Headquarters In Pics: Soleimani's killing: How was the operation carried out and what are the consequences? Read: Iranians gather for Soleimani's funeral procession in hometown Kerman Read: Iran designates all US forces as 'terrorists' for killing general Soleimani Watch: Ayatollah Khamenei vows ‘severe revenge’ for Soleimani killing Watch: Funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani, thousands Iranian mourn Soleimani's death

Assassination of Qasim Soleimani: What we know so far

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/should-iran-strike-us-will-quickly-strike-back-says-trump-272374">Donald Trump </a>on Monday repeated his insistence that Iran will not be allowed to obtain a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/something-is-going-to-happen-but-not-war-expert-on-us-iran-tension-272543">nuclear weapon</a>, amid mounting tension over the US killing of a top Iranian commander.

Writing in all-caps, the US leader tweeted: "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!"

<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>

The tweet came a day after Tehran announced it was further winding down observance of parts of an international deal struck to ensure that the country does not secretly develop a nuclear weapon under cover of its civilian nuclear industry.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-iran-pulls-out-of-nuclear-deal-after-killing-of-solemani-272578/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Trump withdrew the United States from the 2015 deal negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama. Last year, Iran resumed uranium enrichment, reporting a tenfold increase in production.

Tensions between the two countries spiked last week when a US drone strike in Baghdad killed Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force.

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/fineprint-us-iran-row-may-hit-basmati-business-272579/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

While Iran has threatened retaliation for the killing, Trump has warned that the US will strike "very hard and very fast" at as many as 52 Iranian targets if the Islamic republic does attack US personnel or assets.&nbsp;

Huge crowds turned out Monday in Iran for the 62-year-old commander's funeral, while in neighbouring Iraq, parliament has voted to expel some 5,200 US troops stationed in the country.

Trump's tweet did not add any details about the steps he was considering to prevent Iran from reviving its nuclear program. Iran has always denied any military dimension to its nuclear project.

President Donald Trump on Monday repeated his insistence that Iran will not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon, amid mounting tension over the US killing of a top Iranian commander.

President Donald Trump on Monday repeated his insistence that Iran will not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon, amid mounting tension over the US killing of a top Iranian commander. Writing in all-caps, the US leader tweeted: "IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON!" IRAN WILL NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 6, 2020 × The tweet came a day after Tehran announced it was further winding down observance of parts of an international deal struck to ensure that the country does not secretly develop a nuclear weapon under cover of its civilian nuclear industry. Watch: Trump withdrew the United States from the 2015 deal negotiated under his predecessor Barack Obama. Last year, Iran resumed uranium enrichment, reporting a tenfold increase in production. Tensions between the two countries spiked last week when a US drone strike in Baghdad killed Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force. Watch: While Iran has threatened retaliation for the killing, Trump has warned that the US will strike "very hard and very fast" at as many as 52 Iranian targets if the Islamic republic does attack US personnel or assets. Huge crowds turned out Monday in Iran for the 62-year-old commander's funeral, while in neighbouring Iraq, parliament has voted to expel some 5,200 US troops stationed in the country. Trump's tweet did not add any details about the steps he was considering to prevent Iran from reviving its nuclear program. Iran has always denied any military dimension to its nuclear project.

Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, says Trump as Tehran mourns Suleimani

'He is James Bond, Rommel and Lady Gaga rolled into one': Soleimani was featured in Time magazine's 100 most influential people

After the US said it carried out attacks on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-ordered-action-against-irans-quds-force-commander-soleimani-us-department-of-defence-271773">Baghdad airport </a>that killed Iran's Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani, Iran's foreign minister said it was "an extremely dangerous and foolish escalation."

"The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism," foreign minister Zarif said in a Twitter post.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The US' act of international terrorism, targeting &amp; assassinating General Soleimani—THE most effective force fighting Daesh (ISIS), Al Nusrah, Al Qaeda et al—is extremely dangerous &amp; a foolish escalation. 
 
The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1212946202280579073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 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>

Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi summoned an official from the Swiss embassy which represents the US to condemn the killing of Soleimani.

"Following the assassination of General Soleimani by US forces, the Swiss charge d'affaires was summoned and Iran's serious condemnation was conveyed to him," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said.

"He was told that this is a clear instance of America's state terrorism and America's regime will be fully responsible for its consequences," Mousavi added.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deputy-head-of-group-irans-quds-force-head-qasem-soleimani-killed-hashed-al-shaabi-271762">US Department of Defence</a>&nbsp;had said in a statement that President ordered the strike on Iran's Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani.

"At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization," the US Department of defence said.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed in a statement that Soleimani was killed during the Baghdad airport attack.

"Honoured supreme commander of Islam, Haj Qassim Soleimani, was martyred this morning after a life of struggle in an attack by American helicopters," the Revolutionary Guards said in a statement.

After the US said it carried out attacks on Baghdad airport that killed Iran's Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani, Iran's foreign minister said it was "an extremely dangerous and foolish escalation.

After the US said it carried out attacks on Baghdad airport that killed Iran's Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani, Iran's foreign minister said it was "an extremely dangerous and foolish escalation." "The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism," foreign minister Zarif said in a Twitter post. The US' act of international terrorism, targeting & assassinating General Soleimani—THE most effective force fighting Daesh (ISIS), Al Nusrah, Al Qaeda et al—is extremely dangerous & a foolish escalation. The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) January 3, 2020 × Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi summoned an official from the Swiss embassy which represents the US to condemn the killing of Soleimani. "Following the assassination of General Soleimani by US forces, the Swiss charge d'affaires was summoned and Iran's serious condemnation was conveyed to him," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi said. "He was told that this is a clear instance of America's state terrorism and America's regime will be fully responsible for its consequences," Mousavi added. The US Department of Defence had said in a statement that President ordered the strike on Iran's Revolutionary Guards commander Qasem Soleimani. "At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a US-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization," the US Department of defence said. Iran's Revolutionary Guards confirmed in a statement that Soleimani was killed during the Baghdad airport attack. "Honoured supreme commander of Islam, Haj Qassim Soleimani, was martyred this morning after a life of struggle in an attack by American helicopters," the Revolutionary Guards said in a statement.

US bears responsibility for consequences of rogue adventurism: Iran foreign minister Zarif on Soleimani killing

Reports have been claimed that head of the elite Quds Force & Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed late on Thursday in an airstrike on their convoy in Baghdad airport. #Baghdad #BaghdadAirport #QassemSoleimani #WION

Reports: Air strike on Baghdad airport, 8 killed including Iranian Major-General Soleimani

A US strike killed top Iranian <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-attack-on-baghdad-airport-top-iran-commander-killed-271756">commander Qasem Soleimani</a> and the deputy head of Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi military force at Baghdad's airport early Friday, the Hashed announced.&nbsp;

"The deputy head of the Hashed, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and head of the Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, were killed in a US strike that targeted their car on the Baghdad International Airport road," the group said in a statement.

The international airport was hit in a volley of missiles just after midnight, Iraq's military said.

Security sources said the rockets targeted a Hashed convoy and left eight people dead, including "important figures."

As the news of the attack became public, Donald Trump tweeted a picture of the US flag.

The Hashed is a network of mostly-Shiite armed units, many of whom have very close ties to Tehran, who have been officially incorporated into Iraq's state security forces.

Muhandis is the Hashed's deputy chief but is widely recognised as the real shot-caller within the group.

He has been blacklisted by the US.&nbsp;

Soleimani heads the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force and also serves as Iran's pointman on Iraq.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, a mob of Hashed supporters surrounded the US embassy in outrage over American air strikes that killed 25 fighters from the network's hardline Kataeb Hezbollah faction, which is backed by Iran.&nbsp;

The US had acted in response to a rocket attack days earlier that had killed an American contractor working in Iraq.

A US strike killed top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and the deputy head of Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi military force at Baghdad's airport early Friday, the Hashed announced.

A US strike killed top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani and the deputy head of Iraq's Hashed al-Shaabi military force at Baghdad's airport early Friday, the Hashed announced. "The deputy head of the Hashed, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and head of the Quds Force, Qasem Soleimani, were killed in a US strike that targeted their car on the Baghdad International Airport road," the group said in a statement. The international airport was hit in a volley of missiles just after midnight, Iraq's military said. Security sources said the rockets targeted a Hashed convoy and left eight people dead, including "important figures." As the news of the attack became public, Donald Trump tweeted a picture of the US flag. The Hashed is a network of mostly-Shiite armed units, many of whom have very close ties to Tehran, who have been officially incorporated into Iraq's state security forces. Muhandis is the Hashed's deputy chief but is widely recognised as the real shot-caller within the group. He has been blacklisted by the US. Soleimani heads the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force and also serves as Iran's pointman on Iraq. On Tuesday, a mob of Hashed supporters surrounded the US embassy in outrage over American air strikes that killed 25 fighters from the network's hardline Kataeb Hezbollah faction, which is backed by Iran. The US had acted in response to a rocket attack days earlier that had killed an American contractor working in Iraq.

Deputy head of group, Iran's Quds Force head Qasem Soleimani killed: Hashed al-Shaabi

Iranian Major-General <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rocket-attack-on-baghdad-airport-top-iran-commander-killed-271756">Qassem Soleimani</a>, head of the elite Quds Force, and&nbsp;Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed early on Friday in an airstrike on their convoy at Baghdad airport, an&nbsp;Iraqi militia spokesman told Reuters.

"The American and Israeli enemy is responsible for killing the mujahideen Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Qassem Soleimani," said Ahmed al-Assadi, a spokesman for&nbsp;Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces umbrella grouping of Iran-backed militias.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-carries-out-airstrikes-against-militant-groups-in-iraq-syria-270892">Strikes</a> had been carried out against two targets linked to Iran in Baghdad on Thursday, US&nbsp;officials told sources. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to give any further details.

Watch: Reports - Air strike on Baghdad airport, 8 killed including Iranian Major-General 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/reports-air-strike-on-baghdad-airport-8-killed-including-iranian-major-general-soleimani-271758/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Iraqi paramilitary groups said on Friday that three rockets hit Baghdad International Airport, killing five members of&nbsp;Iraqi paramilitary groups and two "guests."

The rockets landed near the air cargo terminal, burning two vehicles, killing and injuring several people.
<img alt="Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, a commander in the Popular Mobilization Forces" data-caption="Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, a commander in the Popular Mobilization Forces was also killed in the airstrikes conducted by the US airstrike which killed Iranian Quds Forces commander Qassem Soleimani." data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aee4b6d8-1e77-4abd-8835-569336dc06dd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%286%29_7.jpg" />
Soleimani, who has led the foreign arm of the Revolutionary Guards and has had a key role in fighting in Syria and&nbsp;Iraq, acquired celebrity status at home and abroad.

He was instrumental in the spread of Iranian influence in the Middle East, which the United States and Tehran's regional foes Saudi Arabia and Israel have struggled to keep in check.

He survived several <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-foiled-plot-to-kill-quds-force-chief-qassem-suleimani-253699">assassination attempts</a> against him by Western, Israeli and Arab agencies over the past two decades.

Soleimani's Quds Force, tasked with carrying out operations beyond Iran's borders, shored up support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad when he looked close to defeat in the civil war raging since 2011 and also helped militiamen defeat Islamic State in&nbsp;Iraq.

Soleimani became head of the Quds Force in 1998, a position in which he kept a low profile for years while he strengthened Iran's ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government and Shi’ite militia groups in&nbsp;Iraq.

Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force, and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed early on Friday in an airstrike on their convoy at Baghdad airport, an Iraqi militia spokesman told Reuters.

Iranian Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force, and Iraqi militia commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis were killed early on Friday in an airstrike on their convoy at Baghdad airport, an Iraqi militia spokesman told Reuters. "The American and Israeli enemy is responsible for killing the mujahideen Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis and Qassem Soleimani," said Ahmed al-Assadi, a spokesman for Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces umbrella grouping of Iran-backed militias. Strikes had been carried out against two targets linked to Iran in Baghdad on Thursday, US officials told sources. The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, declined to give any further details. Watch: Reports - Air strike on Baghdad airport, 8 killed including Iranian Major-General Soleimani × Iraqi paramilitary groups said on Friday that three rockets hit Baghdad International Airport, killing five members of Iraqi paramilitary groups and two "guests." The rockets landed near the air cargo terminal, burning two vehicles, killing and injuring several people. Soleimani, who has led the foreign arm of the Revolutionary Guards and has had a key role in fighting in Syria and Iraq, acquired celebrity status at home and abroad. He was instrumental in the spread of Iranian influence in the Middle East, which the United States and Tehran's regional foes Saudi Arabia and Israel have struggled to keep in check. He survived several assassination attempts against him by Western, Israeli and Arab agencies over the past two decades. Soleimani's Quds Force, tasked with carrying out operations beyond Iran's borders, shored up support for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad when he looked close to defeat in the civil war raging since 2011 and also helped militiamen defeat Islamic State in Iraq. Soleimani became head of the Quds Force in 1998, a position in which he kept a low profile for years while he strengthened Iran's ties with Hezbollah in Lebanon, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s government and Shi’ite militia groups in Iraq.

Iran's Soleimani and Iraq's Muhandis killed in US air strike - militia spokesman

Qasem Soleimani: The latest file terminated at CIA Headquarters

Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi on Monday condemned air strikes by the United States on several bases belonging to an Iranian-backed militia group in Iraq and said the attack would have consequences.

Iraq PM condemns US strikes on its soil

Oil price rises over 4% after US air strike kills Iranian military commander

A senior Iranian official said on Thursday (October 3) that Tehran had foiled a plot by Israeli and Arab agencies to assassinate Major-General Qassem Soleimani, head of the elite Quds Force. Watch this video to know more.

Iran says it foiled plot to kill Quds Gen. Qassim Soleimani

A senior Iranian official of Iran's intelligence agency has claimed that Tehran has foiled a plot to assassinate Major General Qassem Soleimani, a senior commander in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Hossein Taeb — the head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' intelligence unit — said that the unit thwarted a ploy to assassinate the major general.

The blame has been put on old foes — the Israelis and Arabs.

According to Hossein Taeb, a team of terrorist-recruits were to enter Iran and execute the plan for a bomb attack targeting Soleimani.

Watch: Major General Qassem Soleimani agrees to 1st TV interview in 20 years

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/major-general-qassem-soleimani-agrees-to-1st-tv-interview-in-20-years-253492/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The plotters were to buy property adjacent to the grave of Soleimani's father in the south-eastern province of Kerman and rig it with three-hundred-and-50 to five-hundred kilograms of explosives.

They would then blow it up during the major general's religious visit between September 8 and 9.&nbsp;

Hossein Taeb said that the plotters were under watch for some time.

Three members of the team have since been arrested.

He pointed out that the arrested confessed of their intention to do something big and that the plot had been years in the planning..

Hossein Taeb alleged that the Hebrew-Arab intelligence services wanted to ignite a religious conflict and portray the assassination as domestic revenge.

Major general Qassem Soleimani is a globally famous defence strategist and is currently the commander of the &nbsp;Quds Force unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

He is credited with heading the counter-terrorism operations that led to the collapse of the Islamic State terror group in Iraq and Syria.

A senior Iranian official of Iran's intelligence agency has claimed that Tehran has foiled a plot to assassinate Major General Qassem Soleimani, a senior commander in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

A senior Iranian official of Iran's intelligence agency has claimed that Tehran has foiled a plot to assassinate Major General Qassem Soleimani, a senior commander in Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Hossein Taeb — the head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' intelligence unit — said that the unit thwarted a ploy to assassinate the major general. The blame has been put on old foes — the Israelis and Arabs. According to Hossein Taeb, a team of terrorist-recruits were to enter Iran and execute the plan for a bomb attack targeting Soleimani. Watch: Major General Qassem Soleimani agrees to 1st TV interview in 20 years The plotters were to buy property adjacent to the grave of Soleimani's father in the south-eastern province of Kerman and rig it with three-hundred-and-50 to five-hundred kilograms of explosives. They would then blow it up during the major general's religious visit between September 8 and 9. Hossein Taeb said that the plotters were under watch for some time. Three members of the team have since been arrested. He pointed out that the arrested confessed of their intention to do something big and that the plot had been years in the planning.. Hossein Taeb alleged that the Hebrew-Arab intelligence services wanted to ignite a religious conflict and portray the assassination as domestic revenge. Major general Qassem Soleimani is a globally famous defence strategist and is currently the commander of the Quds Force unit of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He is credited with heading the counter-terrorism operations that led to the collapse of the Islamic State terror group in Iraq and Syria.

Iran says it foiled 'plot' to kill Quds Force chief Qassem Suleimani

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday warned Lebanon, Hezbollah's chief and the head of Iran's elite Quds Force to "be careful" with their words and actions.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday warned Lebanon, Hezbollah's chief and the head of Iran's elite Quds Force to "be careful" with their words and actions. Addressing Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, Netanyahu told a conference that "he knows very well that the state of Israel knows how to defend itself well, and to repay its enemies". "I want to say to him and the Lebanese state, which is hosting this organisation that aims to destroy us, and I say the same to Qassem Soleimani: Be careful about your words, and even more cautious about your actions." He suggested that Nasrallah "calm down". Netanyahu spoke after a series of incidents in recent days that have raised tensions between Israel, Lebanon, Iran and Tehran-backed Hezbollah. Nasrallah has accused Israel of being behind a drone attack on the Lebanese Shiite movement's Beirut stronghold on Sunday and threatened retaliation. He called it the first such "hostile action" since a 2006 war between Israel and Hezbollah. Lebanon's President Michel Aoun called it a "declaration of war". Hours before the Beirut incident, Israel announced it had carried out a strike in neighbouring Syria to thwart what it said was a plan by an Iranian force to attack its territory with drones. On Monday, a pro-Syrian Palestinian group accused Israel of carrying out a drone attack on one of its positions in Lebanon. Israel has carried out hundreds of strikes in Syria targeting what it says are Iranian and Hezbollah targets. Iran and Hezbollah, along with Russia, have backed Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in his country's civil war. Netanyahu has pledged to stop Israel's arch-enemy Iran from entrenching itself militarily in Syria.

'Israel knows how to defend itself well, and to repay its enemies': Netanyahu warns Hezbollah, Lebanon

Israel's military said it carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Syria early Monday after it intercepted a rocket fired from Syrian territory hours before.

It said in a statement it was "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/will-keep-military-forces-in-syria-despite-israeli-threats-says-iran-190763">currently striking</a>" the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force in Syria and warned Syria's military against "attempting to harm Israeli territory or forces".

It provided no further details on the raids.

Israel's military said on Sunday its air defence systems intercepted a rocket fired from Syria, after Damascus accused Israel of carrying out air raids in the country's south.

As Israel announced its strikes early Monday, Syrian state news agency SANA said its country's air-defence systems had targeted "enemy" fire.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported Israeli missile strikes in the area of the Damascus airport and areas around the capital.

It said the missiles hit apparent Iranian and Hezbollah arms depots.

Israel has pledged to stop its main enemy Iran from entrenching itself militarily in neighbouring Syria.

It has carried out hundreds of air strikes there against what it says are Iranian military targets and advanced arms deliveries to Tehran-backed Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shiite militia.

Israel rarely publicly confirms its strikes in Syria.

Its fighter planes have faced anti-aircraft fire during such raids, but Israeli media reported that Sunday's response included a surface-to-surface missile from Syria.

Israel's military said only that it had intercepted a rocket fired at the northern Golan Heights.

'Permanent policy' 
On Sunday, SANA quoted a military source saying Syria's air defences went into action after Israel earlier in the day launched air strikes on the south of the country.

The Russian army said Syrian air defences destroyed seven Israeli projectiles, after four of the Jewish state's F-16 military planes "fired rockets into Syrian territory".

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told reporters on Sunday that "we have a permanent policy: to strike at the Iranian entrenchment in Syria and hurt whoever tries to hurt us."

Netanyahu and other Israeli officials have been speaking more openly about the Syria strikes in recent days, with some analysts saying the premier seems to want to further burnish his security credentials ahead of April 9 elections.

But Israel also risks an escalation with Syria and Iran, as well as possibly further angering Russia.

Military coordination between Israel and Russia took a hit after a friendly fire incident in September that led to a Russian plane being downed by Syrian air defences during an Israeli strike.

The incident angered Russia and complicated Israel's operations in Syria, particularly after Moscow's delivery of the advanced S-300 air defence system there in response.

Israel has sought to keep its coordination with Russia on track and maintain its ability to strike in Syria.

On Thursday, Israeli military officials concluded a series of talks with their Russian counterparts aimed at improving coordination in the war-torn country.

Both Russia and Iran are backing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime in his country's civil war.

Israel's military said it carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Syria early Monday after it intercepted a rocket fired from Syrian territory hours before. It said in a statement it was "currently striking" the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force in Syria and warned Syria's military against "attempting to harm Israeli territory or forces".

Israel's military said it carried out strikes on Iranian targets in Syria early Monday after it intercepted a rocket fired from Syrian territory hours before. It said in a statement it was "currently striking" the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force in Syria and warned Syria's military against "attempting to harm Israeli territory or forces". It provided no further details on the raids. Israel's military said on Sunday its air defence systems intercepted a rocket fired from Syria, after Damascus accused Israel of carrying out air raids in the country's south. As Israel announced its strikes early Monday, Syrian state news agency SANA said its country's air-defence systems had targeted "enemy" fire. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights war monitor reported Israeli missile strikes in the area of the Damascus airport and areas around the capital. It said the missiles hit apparent Iranian and Hezbollah arms depots. Israel has pledged to stop its main enemy Iran from entrenching itself militarily in neighbouring Syria. It has carried out hundreds of air strikes there against what it says are Iranian military targets and advanced arms deliveries to Tehran-backed Hezbollah, the Lebanese Shiite militia. Israel rarely publicly confirms its strikes in Syria. Its fighter planes have faced anti-aircraft fire during such raids, but Israeli media reported that Sunday's response included a surface-to-surface missile from Syria. Israel's military said only that it had intercepted a rocket fired at the northern Golan Heights. 'Permanent policy' On Sunday, SANA quoted a military source saying Syria's air defences went into action after Israel earlier in the day launched air strikes on the south of the country. The Russian army said Syrian air defences destroyed seven Israeli projectiles, after four of the Jewish state's F-16 military planes "fired rockets into Syrian territory". Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told reporters on Sunday that "we have a permanent policy: to strike at the Iranian entrenchment in Syria and hurt whoever tries to hurt us." Netanyahu and other Israeli officials have been speaking more openly about the Syria strikes in recent days, with some analysts saying the premier seems to want to further burnish his security credentials ahead of April 9 elections. But Israel also risks an escalation with Syria and Iran, as well as possibly further angering Russia. Military coordination between Israel and Russia took a hit after a friendly fire incident in September that led to a Russian plane being downed by Syrian air defences during an Israeli strike. The incident angered Russia and complicated Israel's operations in Syria, particularly after Moscow's delivery of the advanced S-300 air defence system there in response. Israel has sought to keep its coordination with Russia on track and maintain its ability to strike in Syria. On Thursday, Israeli military officials concluded a series of talks with their Russian counterparts aimed at improving coordination in the war-torn country. Both Russia and Iran are backing Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's regime in his country's civil war.

Israel says it has again hit Iranian targets in Syria

quds-force

Quds Force, News on Quds Force, stories on Quds Force, articles on Quds Force, Quds Force stories at Wion, Quds Force news, Quds Force latest news

quds force