Tensions are escalating in West Asia according to reports that suspected Israeli war planes have bombed Iran's Embassy in Syria. Iran says the bombing killed seven of its military advisers including three of its senior commanders.

Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital Damascus under attack

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is set to hold an emergency meeting following a deadly Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in the Syrian capital of Damascus. Watch in for more details!

UNSC to meet over Israel's attack on Iranian consulate in Syria

UNSC to hold emergency meeting on Israeli strike on Iran's Syria consulate

Iran's consulate in the Syrian capital Damascus was flattened on Monday in what Syrian and Iranian media described as an Israeli air strike. The strike killed a top Revolutionary Guards commander and several diplomats.

Iranian consulate in Damascus flattened in suspected Israeli air strike

An Israeli airstrike has destroyed the consular section of Iran's embassy in Damascus. A commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' Quds Force in Lebanon, was killed in the strike. Watch in for more details!

BREAKING: Iranian IRGC commander killed in air strike on Syria embassy compound

An Israeli airstrike has destroyed the consular section of Iran's embassy in Damascus, killing or wounding everyone inside. Watch in for more details!

BREAKING: Israeli air strike destroys Iranian consulate in Damascus

Islamic State (IS) group jihadists have “executed” eight Syrian soldiers after an ambush a war monitor said on Sunday, as it reported that the jihadists had killed 14 troops in recent days.

Islamic State executes eight Syrian soldiers

Islamic State jihadists 'execute' eight Syrian soldiers after desert ambush

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


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

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

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

<p>At least seven people were killed and 30 others were injured in a car blast in the rebel-held Syrian town of Azaz near the Turkish border, the news agency Reuters reported on Sunday (Mar 31) citing residents and rescuers. The blast occurred late Saturday night at a popular market after the breaking of the&nbsp;Ramadan fast.</p>

<p>No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion so far. Among the injured, some were serious and&nbsp;were transferred to local hospitals for treatment, civil defence forces said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-insurgent-groups-launch-airstrikes-near-aleppo-causing-casualties-syrian-army-705384">Israel airstrikes near Aleppo 'kill 42 Syrian soldiers' as fighting intensifies</a></strong></p>

<p>Speaking to Reuters, Yaseen Shalabi, who was near the incident site shopping with his family, said, "It's (the explosion's) timing comes with heavy congestion by shoppers."</p>

<p>According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the blast caused significant damage in the area and sparked a fire. Ambulances and rescue personnel were present at the scene.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch | The West Asia Post:&nbsp;Massive power outages plague Syria, people turn to cafes for reliable source of energy</strong></p>

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<p>Azaz is run by Syrian rebel groups backed by Turkey opposing Syrian President Bashar al Assad. The town has seen relative calm after it was hit by a car blast over two years ago.</p>

<p>Main towns in the northwestern border area have in recent years been frequently hit by bombings detonated in crowded civilian areas.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


At least seven people were killed and 30 others were injured in a car blast in the rebel-held Syrian town of Azaz near the Turkish border, the news agency Reuters reported on Sunday (Mar 31) citing residents and rescuers.

At least seven people were killed and 30 others were injured in a car blast in the rebel-held Syrian town of Azaz near the Turkish border, the news agency Reuters reported on Sunday (Mar 31) citing residents and rescuers. The blast occurred late Saturday night at a popular market after the breaking of the Ramadan fast. No group has claimed responsibility for the explosion so far. Among the injured, some were serious and were transferred to local hospitals for treatment, civil defence forces said. Also read | Israel airstrikes near Aleppo 'kill 42 Syrian soldiers' as fighting intensifies Speaking to Reuters, Yaseen Shalabi, who was near the incident site shopping with his family, said, "It's (the explosion's) timing comes with heavy congestion by shoppers." According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, the blast caused significant damage in the area and sparked a fire. Ambulances and rescue personnel were present at the scene. Also watch | The West Asia Post: Massive power outages plague Syria, people turn to cafes for reliable source of energy × Azaz is run by Syrian rebel groups backed by Turkey opposing Syrian President Bashar al Assad. The town has seen relative calm after it was hit by a car blast over two years ago. Main towns in the northwestern border area have in recent years been frequently hit by bombings detonated in crowded civilian areas. (With inputs from agencies)

Seven killed, 30 injured in car blast in Syria's Azaz town near Turkish border

Israeli airstrikes on Syria's have killed more than 40 people, including members of Hezbollah and a large number of Syrian soldiers. Watch in for more details!

Israeli airstrike in Syria kills more than 40 people

<p>Gunmen thought to be linked to the Islamic State group in Syria killed 18 people searching for truffles in the desert Wednesday, a war monitor said.</p>

<p>More than 50 people remained missing after the attack that saw heavy clashes with pro-government forces, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.</p>

<p>"Eighteen people were confirmed killed, including four pro-government fighters ... while more than 50 are still missing, after an attack launched by gunmen likely affiliated with IS," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-destroyer-successfully-intercepts-houthi-drone-attack-in-red-sea-697188">US destroyer successfully intercepts Houthi drone attack in Red Sea</a></strong></p>

<p>The jihadists attacked the group with machine guns, said the Britain-based monitoring group with a network of sources inside Syria. The clashes left about a dozen cars burnt, it added.</p>

<p>The Syrian desert is renowned for producing some of the world's best quality truffles, which fetch high prices in a country battered by 13 years of war and a crushing economic crisis.</p>

<p>Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives, defying official warnings, to collect the delicacies in the vast northern Syrian desert, or Badia – a known hideout for jihadists that is also littered with landmines.</p>

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<p>Last month, a blast from a landmine left by the IS group killed 14 people foraging for desert truffles, state media said.</p>

<p>IS lost its last scraps of territory&nbsp;in Syria in March 2019, following a military campaign backed by a US-led coalition, but jihadist remnants continue to hide in the desert and launch deadly attacks.</p>

<p>They have ambushed civilians as well as Kurdish-led forces, Syrian government troops and pro-Iran fighters, while also mounting attacks in neighbouring Iraq.</p>

<p>Syria's war has killed more than half a million people and displaced millions more since it broke out in March 2011 with Damascus's brutal repression of anti-government protests.</p>


Gunmen thought to be linked to the Islamic State group in Syria killed 18 people searching for truffles in the desert Wednesday, a war monitor said. More than 50 people remained missing after the attack that saw heavy clashes with pro-government forces, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said.

Gunmen thought to be linked to the Islamic State group in Syria killed 18 people searching for truffles in the desert Wednesday, a war monitor said. More than 50 people remained missing after the attack that saw heavy clashes with pro-government forces, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. "Eighteen people were confirmed killed, including four pro-government fighters ... while more than 50 are still missing, after an attack launched by gunmen likely affiliated with IS," it said. Also Read | US destroyer successfully intercepts Houthi drone attack in Red Sea The jihadists attacked the group with machine guns, said the Britain-based monitoring group with a network of sources inside Syria. The clashes left about a dozen cars burnt, it added. The Syrian desert is renowned for producing some of the world's best quality truffles, which fetch high prices in a country battered by 13 years of war and a crushing economic crisis. Every year between February and April, foragers risk their lives, defying official warnings, to collect the delicacies in the vast northern Syrian desert, or Badia – a known hideout for jihadists that is also littered with landmines. Also Read | UN agency for migration declares 2023 as the most fatal year for migrants Last month, a blast from a landmine left by the IS group killed 14 people foraging for desert truffles, state media said. IS lost its last scraps of territory in Syria in March 2019, following a military campaign backed by a US-led coalition, but jihadist remnants continue to hide in the desert and launch deadly attacks. They have ambushed civilians as well as Kurdish-led forces, Syrian government troops and pro-Iran fighters, while also mounting attacks in neighbouring Iraq. Syria's war has killed more than half a million people and displaced millions more since it broke out in March 2011 with Damascus's brutal repression of anti-government protests.

At least 18 killed, over 50 missing in suspected IS attack on Syria truffle hunters: Report

<p>Five members of the Special Air Service (SAS) have been arrested by British military police on suspicion of allegedly committing war crimes during operations in Syria. The Ministry of Defence, while refraining from direct comments on the investigation, acknowledged the accuracy of reports circulating within military circles.</p>

<p>This is in addition to the SAS's activities in Afghanistan that are separately under scrutiny in a public inquiry. The members of the British Special Air Service are accused of summarily killing 80 Afghans over the years.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uks-broken-promises-afghan-special-forces-left-in-limbo-as-taliban-threat-looms-668495">UK's broken promises: Afghan Special Forces left in limbo, face threat of return to Taliban</a></strong></p>

<p>A spokesperson for the British Ministry of Defence said: "We hold our personnel to the highest standards, and any allegations of wrongdoing are taken seriously."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What are the 'war crime' accusations?</strong></h2>

<p>The accused SAS members have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the murder of a suspected jihadist in Syria two years ago.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Case files recommending murder charges have been forwarded to the Service Prosecuting Authority, the military equivalent of the Crown Prosecution Service, <em>The Guardian</em> reported.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-afghanistan-to-ukraine-is-us-provided-atacms-leading-to-russias-stinger-missile-moment-in-2023-649452">From Afghanistan to Ukraine: Is US-provided ATACMS leading to Russia's ‘Stinger-missile-moment’ in 2023?</a></strong></p>

<p>The allegations centre around claims of excessive force used in the incident. The soldiers reportedly maintained they perceived the deceased as a legitimate threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SAS has been actively engaged in covert operations against the Islamic State in Syria, supporting Kurdish allies of the West.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: UK troops killed civilians in Mosul airstrikes | 20 years of the Iraq War</strong></p>

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<p>The identity of the accused soldiers remains undisclosed.</p>

<p>The SAS, headquartered in Hereford, operates in utmost secrecy and conducts high-risk missions in locations where the UK officially denies military presence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The accused soldiers may maintain their anonymity if court martial proceedings ensue, similar to the SAS's secretive nature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The director of special forces, the SAS's highest-ranking officer, remains solely accountable to the defence secretary and the prime minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Five members of the Special Air Service (SAS) have been arrested by British military police on suspicion of allegedly committing war crimes during operations in Syria.

Five members of the Special Air Service (SAS) have been arrested by British military police on suspicion of allegedly committing war crimes during operations in Syria. The Ministry of Defence, while refraining from direct comments on the investigation, acknowledged the accuracy of reports circulating within military circles. This is in addition to the SAS's activities in Afghanistan that are separately under scrutiny in a public inquiry. The members of the British Special Air Service are accused of summarily killing 80 Afghans over the years. Also read | UK's broken promises: Afghan Special Forces left in limbo, face threat of return to Taliban A spokesperson for the British Ministry of Defence said: "We hold our personnel to the highest standards, and any allegations of wrongdoing are taken seriously." What are the 'war crime' accusations? The accused SAS members have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the murder of a suspected jihadist in Syria two years ago. Case files recommending murder charges have been forwarded to the Service Prosecuting Authority, the military equivalent of the Crown Prosecution Service, The Guardian reported. Also read | From Afghanistan to Ukraine: Is US-provided ATACMS leading to Russia's ‘Stinger-missile-moment’ in 2023? The allegations centre around claims of excessive force used in the incident. The soldiers reportedly maintained they perceived the deceased as a legitimate threat. The SAS has been actively engaged in covert operations against the Islamic State in Syria, supporting Kurdish allies of the West. Also watch | Gravitas: UK troops killed civilians in Mosul airstrikes | 20 years of the Iraq War × The identity of the accused soldiers remains undisclosed. The SAS, headquartered in Hereford, operates in utmost secrecy and conducts high-risk missions in locations where the UK officially denies military presence. The accused soldiers may maintain their anonymity if court martial proceedings ensue, similar to the SAS's secretive nature. The director of special forces, the SAS's highest-ranking officer, remains solely accountable to the defence secretary and the prime minister. (With inputs from agencies)

Five British soldiers arrested for alleged war crimes in Syria

London-born woman Shamima Begum who went to Syria as a schoolgirl to join the Islamic State terror group, on Friday (Feb 23) lost her latest appeal over the revocation of her British citizenship. Shamima Begum's citizenship was taken away by the British government on grounds of national security in 2019, weeks after she was found in a detention camp in north-eastern Syria.

Former ‘ISIS bride’ Shamima Begum loses battle over regaining UK citizenship

The Civil War in Syria has made electricity a scare commodity. Long power cuts are now driving the country’s working class to work in cafes. Ghadi Francis tells you how an unfortunate circumstance has made the café culture more popular in Syria.

Massive power outages plague Syria, people turn to cafes for reliable source of energy

Just a few days back an American drone blew up a car in Bagdad killing what Americans claimed was a high-ranking commander of the Kata'ib Hezbollah group. The American Military said that the strike killed Abu Baqir al-Saadi. Washington further claims that he was responsible for directly planning and also participating in attacks on American troops. Here's how the American Military killed the Kata'ib Hezbollah leader with a secret missile that it claims is designed only to kill terrorists and not other nearby civilians.

Explained: How does the R9X missile reach its target?

<p>The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports&nbsp;on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to&nbsp;the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-attacks-disrupt-red-sea-shipping-houthi-leader-claims-real-victory-688428">As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory'</a></strong></p>

<p>"Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Is Israel to blame?</strong></h2>

<p>The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights.</p>

<p>A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT).</p>

<p>"Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement.</p>

<p>While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency)&nbsp;blamed&nbsp;Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes.</p>

<p>Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after&nbsp;Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel&nbsp;has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP.</p>

<p>Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack.

The Syrian air defences, as per state media reports on Friday responded to an attack near the capital. According to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reports, a military airport west of Damascus came under attack. The war monitor said that "the area of the Mazzeh military airport west of the capital Damascus was targeted". Also read | As attacks disrupt Red Sea shipping, Houthi leader claims 'real victory' "Positions belonging to Lebanon's Hezbollah and other pro-Iran groups are present" it added. Is Israel to blame? The Defence Ministry, as per AFP, said that drones entered the Syrian airspace from the direction of the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights. A statement from the defence ministry meanwhile said that "two drones violated Syrian air space from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan". It said that the attack happened around 2:10 pm (1110 GMT). "Air defence systems confronted them, and they were shot down west of Damascus," added the statement. While the source of the attack was not immediately specified, Syria's official news agency, SANA (Syrian Arab News Agency) blamed Israel in its initial reports for "hostile" strikes. Since the onset of the civil war in 2011, Israel has conducted hundreds of airstrikes on Syria. But after Hamas' attack on October 7, Israel has intensified its efforts against Iran-backed forces in Syria, according to AFP. Israel typically refrains from commenting on individual strikes in Syria but has consistently stated its opposition to Iran's expanding presence in the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Syrian air defences 'engage hostile targets' near Damascus, source of attack unclear

Iranian foreign minister is visiting Ally countries in West Asia trying to ramp up support against Israeli actions in Gaza. On Sunday Hossein Amir-Abdollahian met Syrian president Bashar al-Assad in Damascus. Speaking to the Press, the Iranian foreign minister said that the Israeli actions won't go without a response. Watch to know more!

Iran foreign minister visits Syria meets Syrian President Bashar al-Assad

An artist in Syria tells tales of resistance and heartbreak through his paintings, as he fondly remembers his besieged homeland.

A Palestinian painter’s tale through his art

One year since a deadly earthquake left thousands dead in Turkey and Syria, we take a look at some of the most horrific moments.

WION looks back at deadly earthquake in Turkey & Syria

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

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

<p>Moscow said the US President Joe Biden is 'boosting' his presidential campaign with strikes in Iraq and Syria. In the United States, meanwhile, Republican presidential hopeful Nikki Haley has requested Secret Service protection amid alleged threat to her life.</p>

<p>Elsewhere, the election campaign for Pakistan National Assembly is in its last leg despite Army's dominance in the country's politics.&nbsp;</p>

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Russia has accused US President Joe Biden of carrying out military strikes in Iraq and Syria to prop up his presidential re-election campaign. Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia, at a meeting of the Security Council, said Biden giving the nod to engage in conflicts in the Middle East was not in response to the deadly attack on US soldiers in Jordan but an attempt to boost his image.</p>

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<p>Buckingham Palace said on Monday (Feb 5) that King Charles has been diagnosed with cancer and will postpone public-facing duties while undergoing treatment. The palace said that the king "remains wholly positive" and "looks forward to returning to full public duty as soon as possible".&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Republican leader Nikki Haley has applied for Secret Service protection amid the increased threats she has been receiving on the campaign trail and days after another swatting incident.&nbsp;</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/five-categories-not-enough-hurricanes-faster-than-ferrari-push-scientists-to-propose-new-intensity-scale-687323"><strong>Five categories not enough, hurricanes 'faster than Ferrari' push scientists to propose new intensity scale</strong></a></p>

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<p>A recent study suggests that hurricanes, fueled by the escalating climate crisis, have become so potent that a new classification, "Category 6," should be added to the conventional 1 to 5 scale. Researchers assert that the intensification of storms, attributed to global heating and rising ocean temperatures, warrants acknowledgment of a more extreme category.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-manchester-city-blast-brentford-away-to-move-within-two-points-of-top-687309"><strong>Premier League: Manchester City blast Brentford away to move within two points of top</strong></a></p>

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<br />
Pep Guardiola said Phil Foden is enjoying his best season at Manchester City after the England international's hat-trick beat Brentford 3-1 on Monday (Feb 5) to leave the Premier League's top three separated by just two points.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-taylor-swift-teases-tracklist-for-upcoming-album-the-tortured-poets-department-687313"><strong>Taylor Swift teases tracklist for upcoming album The Tortured Poets Department</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/05/410016-happy-30th-birthday-61.png?imwidth=500" /><br />
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We finally know what to expect from Taylor Swift’s upcoming album that she teased during last night’s Grammy Awards. As Taylor went on to pick a Grammy on the stage at the 66th Grammy Awards, she revealed that new album is on the way and it will be called&nbsp;<em>The Tortured Poets Department.&nbsp;</em>She then went backstage after picking the award and posted on social media the release date for the same – April 19.&nbsp;</p>


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

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

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

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

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

Amidst fear of further escalation in West Asia, the US has stepped up its military action in the region, after an attack on its base in Jordan killed 3 troops. For the past three days, it has carried out retaliatory strikes on Iran-linked targets in the region. While Iran has warned that it will not hesitate it "will not hesitate" to respond in the event of us attacks on its territory.

Iran says 'will not hesitate' to respond to US attack on its territory

The US has confirmed that they have carried out additional strikes in Yemen to target the rebels in retaliation to the Iran bread Houthi Rebels attacking the shipping vessels in the Red Sea. According to US Central Command, they carried out strikes in self-defence against Houthi Rebels.

Israel-Hamas war | US Centcom carries out 'self-defence' strikes in Yemen

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

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

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

Pentagon says it has targeted 13 Houthi location across Yemen

US retaliatory strikes in repose to Jordan attacks have begun after launching air strikes on 85 Iran-linked targets in Iraq and Syria. Washington launched attacks against 36 targets in Yemen with the support of several other countries. All this while US says that it does not want to escalate tensions in West Asia.

US launches new missile strikes

<p>Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by&nbsp;an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-kataib-hezbollah-the-iran-backed-group-allegedly-behind-the-jordan-strike-on-us-troops-685166">Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group</a>, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Across the Atlantic, the Russian representative in the United Nations&nbsp;has called for the UN Security Council meeting over US strikes in Iraq and Syria.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-who-is-kataib-hezbollah-the-iran-backed-group-allegedly-behind-the-jordan-strike-on-us-troops-685166">Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan?</a></strong></p>

<p>US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq.</p>

<p>Washington ordered attack on&nbsp;"IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia".</p>

<p>The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries.</p>

<h2><strong>Scale of American attack in Iraq and Syria</strong></h2>

<p>The US Central Command claimed that its forces hit as many as 85 targets in seven facilities, four in Syria and three in Iraq. The US reportedly used a mix of drones and long-range B1 bombers that flew all the way from the United States in a purported demonstration of the US airpower.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Iraq's Prime Minister's Office confirmed the US attacks in the Iraqi territory and described it as violation of its sovereignty. It also summoned the US envoy in Baghdad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian areas," Iraq's Prime Minister's Office said in an official statement.</p>

<p>Akashat is located 518 km west of Baghdad, while Al-Qa'im region is 319 km northwest of the Iraqi capital.</p>

<p><img alt="The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a905f4f-d41d-4e51-8bbb-98741731a060" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-03T164143.679.png" /></p>

<p><em>The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps</em></p>

<p>The American invasion of Iraq with Washington's false proclamation&nbsp;of presence of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' in the country, has left a lasting effect on Iraqi life and lifelines. The consequent emergence of the Islamic State (Of Iraq and Syria) also resulted in thousands of civilian deaths.&nbsp;</p>

<p>For the current wave of attacks on its territory, Iraq has said that "the American side intentionally engaged in deception and distortion of facts, stating coordination with Iraqi authorities for the perpetration of this aggression".&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The American administration has carried out a new act of aggression against Iraq's sovereignty. In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian…</p>
— المكتب الإعلامي لرئيس الوزراء 🇮🇶 (@IraqiPMO) <a href="https://twitter.com/IraqiPMO/status/1753721427176399008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Iraqi government said that civilians were among 16 people killed in the US strikes in Iraq.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Syria's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>The Syrian military&nbsp;said on Saturday (Feb 2) that the US occupation of Syrian territory "cannot continue" after Washington carried out deadly strikes in retaliation for a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan.</p>

<p>The overnight strikes killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property", the Syrian military said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," it added, affirming the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation".</p>

<p>The United States has not struck inside the Iranian territory, with both Washington and Tehran seemingly keen to avoid all-out war.</p>

<h2><strong>Are regional proxies responding to US attacks?</strong></h2>

<p>The militants of Islamic Resistance in Iraq on Saturday (Feb 2) claimed that they have targeted the al-Harir air base hosting US forces in northern Iraq. But three security sources later told Reuters that no such attack had occurred.</p>

<h2><strong>Iran's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>Tehran on Saturday (Feb 2) condemned US air strikes on Iraq and Syria as a "strategic mistake" by its arch-foe. Iran, however, did not mention that if there were any Iranian casualties in the strikes.</p>

<p>"Last night's attack on Syria and Iraq is an adventurous action and another strategic mistake by the US government, which will have no result other than intensifying tension and instability in the region," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said in a statement.</p>

<p>US strikes overnight in eastern Syria killed 23 pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said&nbsp;in a new toll for the American retaliatory action.</p>

<p>"The toll has risen to 23 dead: 10 pro-Iran fighters in the Deir Ezzor area and 13 in the Mayadeen area," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding that nine of the fighters were Syrians while six were Iraqis. There were no reported civilian deaths.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war.

Days after three US troops were killed in Jordan allegedly after attack by an Iraq-based and Iran-linked proxy militant group, the United States on Saturday (Feb 3) targeted a number of sites in both Iraq and Syria, pushing West Asia's edge of conflict further into the lines of war. At the time of filing this report, 40 militants have been killed in the US strikes. Across the Atlantic, the Russian representative in the United Nations has called for the UN Security Council meeting over US strikes in Iraq and Syria. Also read | Explained | Who is Kataib Hezbollah, the Iran-backed group allegedly behind strike on US troops in Jordan? US President Joe Biden said that he directed the country's military to strike targets in Syria and Iraq. Washington ordered attack on "IRGC [Iran Revolutionary Guards Corps] and affiliated militia". The United States has some 900 troops in Syria and 2,500 in neighbouring Iraq as part of an international coalition against the Islamic State group, a jihadist organisation that once controlled swathes of both countries. Scale of American attack in Iraq and Syria The US Central Command claimed that its forces hit as many as 85 targets in seven facilities, four in Syria and three in Iraq. The US reportedly used a mix of drones and long-range B1 bombers that flew all the way from the United States in a purported demonstration of the US airpower. Iraq's Prime Minister's Office confirmed the US attacks in the Iraqi territory and described it as violation of its sovereignty. It also summoned the US envoy in Baghdad. "In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian areas," Iraq's Prime Minister's Office said in an official statement. Akashat is located 518 km west of Baghdad, while Al-Qa'im region is 319 km northwest of the Iraqi capital. The US strikes targeted sites in Iraq's Akashat and Qa'im region | Google Maps The American invasion of Iraq with Washington's false proclamation of presence of 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' in the country, has left a lasting effect on Iraqi life and lifelines. The consequent emergence of the Islamic State (Of Iraq and Syria) also resulted in thousands of civilian deaths. For the current wave of attacks on its territory, Iraq has said that "the American side intentionally engaged in deception and distortion of facts, stating coordination with Iraqi authorities for the perpetration of this aggression". The American administration has carried out a new act of aggression against Iraq's sovereignty. In this incident, multiple American aircraft bombed locations in the Akashat and Al-Qa'im regions, including areas where our security forces are stationed, alongside nearby civilian… — المكتب الإعلامي لرئيس الوزراء 🇮🇶 (@IraqiPMO) February 3, 2024 × The Iraqi government said that civilians were among 16 people killed in the US strikes in Iraq. Syria's reaction The Syrian military said on Saturday (Feb 2) that the US occupation of Syrian territory "cannot continue" after Washington carried out deadly strikes in retaliation for a drone attack that killed three US soldiers in Jordan. The overnight strikes killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property", the Syrian military said in a statement. "The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," it added, affirming the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation". The United States has not struck inside the Iranian territory, with both Washington and Tehran seemingly keen to avoid all-out war. Are regional proxies responding to US attacks? The militants of Islamic Resistance in Iraq on Saturday (Feb 2) claimed that they have targeted the al-Harir air base hosting US forces in northern Iraq. But three security sources later told Reuters that no such attack had occurred. Iran's reaction Tehran on Saturday (Feb 2) condemned US air strikes on Iraq and Syria as a "strategic mistake" by its arch-foe. Iran, however, did not mention that if there were any Iranian casualties in the strikes. "Last night's attack on Syria and Iraq is an adventurous action and another strategic mistake by the US government, which will have no result other than intensifying tension and instability in the region," Iran's foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said in a statement. US strikes overnight in eastern Syria killed 23 pro-Iran fighters, a war monitor said in a new toll for the American retaliatory action. "The toll has risen to 23 dead: 10 pro-Iran fighters in the Deir Ezzor area and 13 in the Mayadeen area," said Rami Abdel Rahman, head of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, adding that nine of the fighters were Syrians while six were Iraqis. There were no reported civilian deaths. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East crisis deepens as nearly 40 killed in US strikes on Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria

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<p>Syria said on Saturday (Feb 3) that a number of people died and also got injured following US strikes in the country. In a statement, the Syrian military said that the strikes on Friday killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property."</p>

<p>"The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," the military said and affirmed the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation".</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency AFP, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights chief Rami Abdel Rahman said that at least 26 major sites housing pro-Iranian groups were destroyed in Syria, including weapons depots. Rahman added&nbsp;23 pro-Iran fighters were killed in the strikes.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The air strikes</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, the US launched air strikes against Iranian forces and allied militias in Iraq and Syria with President Joe Biden vowing more to come in retaliation for a deadly drone attack on an American base in Jordan last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-says-us-airstrikes-a-breach-of-sovereignty-warns-of-drastic-consequences-686533">Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences'</a></strong></p>

<p>The strikes, which lasted for 30 minutes, targeted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and "affiliated militia groups," with American forces -- including long-range bombers flown from the United States -- hitting "more than 85 targets," the US Central Command said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The airstrikes employed more than 125 precision munitions," the statement added. The targets included command and control and intelligence centres, as well as rocket, missile and drone storage facilities belonging to militia groups and their IRGC sponsors who facilitated attacks against US and coalition forces.</p>

<h1><strong>'Strikes a violation of Iraq's sovereignty'</strong></h1>

<p>General Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for Iraq's prime minister, called the strikes a "violation" of his country's sovereignty and said they would bring "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Baghdad condemns US strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, Iraq</strong></p>

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<p>Two Iraqi security sources told AFP that the strikes damaged a weapons warehouse and a command centre belonging to pro-Iranian groups in western Iraq, along the Syrian border, resulting in at least some injuries.</p>

<h2><strong>Militants target al-Harir air base hosting US forces</strong></h2>

<p>Hours after the US strikes on Saturday, Islamic Resistance in Iraq&nbsp;(IRI) militants targeted the al-Harir air base hosting American forces in northern Iraq, the news agency Reuters reported citing the group.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Syria said on Saturday (Feb 3) that a number of people died and also got injured following US strikes in the country. In a statement, the Syrian military said that the strikes on Friday killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property.

Syria said on Saturday (Feb 3) that a number of people died and also got injured following US strikes in the country. In a statement, the Syrian military said that the strikes on Friday killed "a number of civilians and soldiers, wounded others and caused significant damage to public and private property." "The occupation of parts of Syrian territory by US forces cannot continue," the military said and affirmed the army's "determination to liberate all Syrian territory from terrorism and occupation". According to a report by the news agency AFP, Syrian Observatory for Human Rights chief Rami Abdel Rahman said that at least 26 major sites housing pro-Iranian groups were destroyed in Syria, including weapons depots. Rahman added 23 pro-Iran fighters were killed in the strikes. The air strikes On Friday, the US launched air strikes against Iranian forces and allied militias in Iraq and Syria with President Joe Biden vowing more to come in retaliation for a deadly drone attack on an American base in Jordan last week. Also read | Iraq says US airstrikes a breach of 'sovereignty', warns of 'drastic consequences' The strikes, which lasted for 30 minutes, targeted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Quds Force and "affiliated militia groups," with American forces -- including long-range bombers flown from the United States -- hitting "more than 85 targets," the US Central Command said in a statement. "The airstrikes employed more than 125 precision munitions," the statement added. The targets included command and control and intelligence centres, as well as rocket, missile and drone storage facilities belonging to militia groups and their IRGC sponsors who facilitated attacks against US and coalition forces. 'Strikes a violation of Iraq's sovereignty' General Yehia Rasool, a spokesman for Iraq's prime minister, called the strikes a "violation" of his country's sovereignty and said they would bring "disastrous consequences for the security and stability of Iraq and the region." Also watch | Baghdad condemns US strikes on Iran-backed targets in Syria, Iraq × Two Iraqi security sources told AFP that the strikes damaged a weapons warehouse and a command centre belonging to pro-Iranian groups in western Iraq, along the Syrian border, resulting in at least some injuries. Militants target al-Harir air base hosting US forces Hours after the US strikes on Saturday, Islamic Resistance in Iraq (IRI) militants targeted the al-Harir air base hosting American forces in northern Iraq, the news agency Reuters reported citing the group. (With inputs from agencies)

US occupation of our territory cannot go on: Syria says number of people dead, wounded in American strikes

The US launched an air assault on several sites in Iraq and Syria used by Iran-backed militias. The attacks come in retaliation to the Drone strike that killed three US service members in Jordan.

US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq and Syria

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