The statuettes for this month's Screen Actors Guild Awards (SAG) were unveiled on Tuesday morning (January 7) in Burbank, north of Los Angeles, after being cast from molten bronze at local foundry.

SAG statuettes cast in Los Angeles ahead of awards show

The recent Golden Globe Awards handed out the Best Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie to Russell Crowe for his role in 'The Loudest Voice'. It is the saga of Fox News, the Rupert Murdoch owned American TV news-from-the-Right channel. And, of course, its pit bull-like head honcho Roger Ailes, played by a wonderfully made up Crowe. &nbsp;

When it was launched, all the other News TV channels in America were competing for the left-of-centre eyeballs, leaving the entire 50 of the field that spoke to middle-America, open to Fox. And unlike in other countries that favoured newspapers, Americans preferred to get their news from 24x7 TV channels. Fox News soon topped the charts in cable news TV.&nbsp;

Though, The Loudest Voice TV serial takes you back to 9/11 and the George W Bush- Dick Cheney era, it does remind you of one thing more. It reminds you that the Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) charge put on Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was a complete myth. &nbsp;

America decided to use 9/11 to effect regime change in Iraq, a matter treated as 'unfinished business' from the term of George Walker Bush, Dubya’s father. Fox was privy to this government objective and worked hard to propagate its merits.&nbsp;

Iraq was a Sunni minority-run country under Saddam and his Ba’ath Party, but quite unrelated to America’s &nbsp;9/11, or the Al Qaeda that perpetrated it. If anything, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan were the authors of 9/11 and not Iraq. But America was not keen to put them in the dock owing to overlapping and multifarious common interests.&nbsp;

Nevertheless, today, when we see war clouds hovering over West Asia after the US drone strike killing of General Qasem Soleimani five days ago, one has to wonder why it was done at this time. What intelligence input does America have? Soleimani, a military man, was the de facto no. 2 of Iran.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The simple answer is that Soleimani was held responsible as the mastermind of multiple terrorist strikes against Americans. But, his elimination poses a threat to the stability of the present regime. That the strike took place outside Baghdad airport is remarkable. And while an unstable, unhappy, ruined, and insurgency-torn Iraq is now under a Shi’ite administration- it is not doing very well. But it is close to Iran, a country that Saddam fought an eight-year war within his time. &nbsp;

Iran has been firing missiles ever since at the US bases in Iraq. Present reports mostly state that these Iranian strikes have not resulted in the loss of Allied lives. Others, from Iran, indicate 80 American soldiers have been killed. &nbsp;

President Trump has not addressed the nation on his next move as yet, apart from debunking the report of casualties by tweeting “All is well”. &nbsp;

But the Russians and Chinese are warning against retaliatory strikes by America. Russia has raised the bogey of nuclear war. Britain has spoken up in support of the American action. Israel is in strong support. France and Germany too are advising caution. As is India, eyeing the 5 per cent escalation in petroleum prices already. Iran has asked India to help in the de-escalation process. Other international voices too, from the Gulf and elsewhere, almost unanimously, are clamouring for de-escalation.&nbsp;

But what does America want? It eliminated Soleimani unilaterally despite the near-certainty of strong reaction. The desired end result, backed no doubt by Saudi Arabia and Israel, from the near region, is to see the back of the Khamenei regime. &nbsp;

This is not the first time the West has intervened to bring about regime change in Iran. It installed the Shah when his predecessor nationalised the oil fields. Much later, the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini broke the link of American influence. Now, successor Ali Khamenei and his cohorts must go, to be replaced by an order more favourable to the US and its friends. &nbsp;

The economic sanctions placed on Iran by the US and its allies to stop it going nuclear are hurting the ordinary people. Most of Iran’s 80 million are fed up with its rulers. As a consequence, there have been large protests, put down harshly. The grass-roots in Iran may be quite ready and ripe to get rid of the puritanical mullahs, but they don’t have the strength to do it by themselves. &nbsp;

America’s attempt to bring about regime change by military means in different countries has generally succeeded; but not in bringing a consequent peace and prosperity to the natives. However, this has never stopped it from pushing ahead with its perceived strategic objectives.&nbsp;

The main one, with regard to Iran, is to stop it becoming a nuclear power fearing that this will make it unmanageable. But is it too late? What was that seismic activity near Iran’s nuclear weapons development site? &nbsp;

Will the other major powers intervene militarily on the side of Iran if America attacks it? It seems very unlikely because both China and Russia cannot afford to precipitate war against America. &nbsp;

As a consequence, while oil prices will be very volatile going forward, President Trump will probably be able to attack Iranian strategic assets and nuclear facilities and drive the current regime out of office, if it acts quickly. And yes, undertaking this aggression successfully will see to it that President Trump will be re-elected to his second term. &nbsp;

The impeachment drama is already deleted from the news cycles, and most recent opinion polls show an uptick in support for President Donald Trump. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
 
(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

The recent Golden Globe Awards handed out the Best Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie to Russell Crowe for his role in 'The Loudest Voice'. It is the saga of Fox News, the Rupert Murdoch owned American TV news-from-the-Right channel.

The recent Golden Globe Awards handed out the Best Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie to Russell Crowe for his role in 'The Loudest Voice'. It is the saga of Fox News, the Rupert Murdoch owned American TV news-from-the-Right channel. And, of course, its pit bull-like head honcho Roger Ailes, played by a wonderfully made up Crowe. When it was launched, all the other News TV channels in America were competing for the left-of-centre eyeballs, leaving the entire 50 of the field that spoke to middle-America, open to Fox. And unlike in other countries that favoured newspapers, Americans preferred to get their news from 24x7 TV channels. Fox News soon topped the charts in cable news TV. Though, The Loudest Voice TV serial takes you back to 9/11 and the George W Bush- Dick Cheney era, it does remind you of one thing more. It reminds you that the Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) charge put on Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein was a complete myth. America decided to use 9/11 to effect regime change in Iraq, a matter treated as 'unfinished business' from the term of George Walker Bush, Dubya’s father. Fox was privy to this government objective and worked hard to propagate its merits. Iraq was a Sunni minority-run country under Saddam and his Ba’ath Party, but quite unrelated to America’s 9/11, or the Al Qaeda that perpetrated it. If anything, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan were the authors of 9/11 and not Iraq. But America was not keen to put them in the dock owing to overlapping and multifarious common interests. Nevertheless, today, when we see war clouds hovering over West Asia after the US drone strike killing of General Qasem Soleimani five days ago, one has to wonder why it was done at this time. What intelligence input does America have? Soleimani, a military man, was the de facto no. 2 of Iran. The simple answer is that Soleimani was held responsible as the mastermind of multiple terrorist strikes against Americans. But, his elimination poses a threat to the stability of the present regime. That the strike took place outside Baghdad airport is remarkable. And while an unstable, unhappy, ruined, and insurgency-torn Iraq is now under a Shi’ite administration- it is not doing very well. But it is close to Iran, a country that Saddam fought an eight-year war within his time. Iran has been firing missiles ever since at the US bases in Iraq. Present reports mostly state that these Iranian strikes have not resulted in the loss of Allied lives. Others, from Iran, indicate 80 American soldiers have been killed. President Trump has not addressed the nation on his next move as yet, apart from debunking the report of casualties by tweeting “All is well”. But the Russians and Chinese are warning against retaliatory strikes by America. Russia has raised the bogey of nuclear war. Britain has spoken up in support of the American action. Israel is in strong support. France and Germany too are advising caution. As is India, eyeing the 5 per cent escalation in petroleum prices already. Iran has asked India to help in the de-escalation process. Other international voices too, from the Gulf and elsewhere, almost unanimously, are clamouring for de-escalation. But what does America want? It eliminated Soleimani unilaterally despite the near-certainty of strong reaction. The desired end result, backed no doubt by Saudi Arabia and Israel, from the near region, is to see the back of the Khamenei regime. This is not the first time the West has intervened to bring about regime change in Iran. It installed the Shah when his predecessor nationalised the oil fields. Much later, the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini broke the link of American influence. Now, successor Ali Khamenei and his cohorts must go, to be replaced by an order more favourable to the US and its friends. The economic sanctions placed on Iran by the US and its allies to stop it going nuclear are hurting the ordinary people. Most of Iran’s 80 million are fed up with its rulers. As a consequence, there have been large protests, put down harshly. The grass-roots in Iran may be quite ready and ripe to get rid of the puritanical mullahs, but they don’t have the strength to do it by themselves. America’s attempt to bring about regime change by military means in different countries has generally succeeded; but not in bringing a consequent peace and prosperity to the natives. However, this has never stopped it from pushing ahead with its perceived strategic objectives. The main one, with regard to Iran, is to stop it becoming a nuclear power fearing that this will make it unmanageable. But is it too late? What was that seismic activity near Iran’s nuclear weapons development site? Will the other major powers intervene militarily on the side of Iran if America attacks it? It seems very unlikely because both China and Russia cannot afford to precipitate war against America. As a consequence, while oil prices will be very volatile going forward, President Trump will probably be able to attack Iranian strategic assets and nuclear facilities and drive the current regime out of office, if it acts quickly. And yes, undertaking this aggression successfully will see to it that President Trump will be re-elected to his second term. The impeachment drama is already deleted from the news cycles, and most recent opinion polls show an uptick in support for President Donald Trump. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

US wants no less than regime change in Iran

Hearing about Iran's ballistic missile attack on Iraq's al-Asad airbase, which hosts U.S. soldiers, was emotional for Wayne Anstead, the owner of a cigar lounge in Fayetteville, North Carolina, which is frequented by members of the U.S. military.

Popular cigar lounge near Fort Bragg remembers troops deployed to Iraq

Iran's parliament has unanimously passed a bill naming the United States' forces as "terrorists" over the assassination of top military commander Qassem Soleimani in an air attack in Iraq. Soleimani, the popular head of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) foreign operations arm Quds Force, was killed in a US drone attack outside Baghdad airport on January 3, ratcheting up tensions between the arch-foes. #USForces #Iran #US #SoleimaniKilling #

WION Dispatch: Iran designates Pentagon as terrorist

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-this-year-be-filled-with-joy-and-prosperity-pm-modi-tweets-out-271326">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> recently spoke to United States President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-am-prepared-to-testify-in-trump-impeachment-trial-john-bolton-272608">Donald Trump</a> on the phone and told him that the relationship between both the countries has grown ''from strength to strength''. Modi further reaffirmed his dedication to cooperation between the countries to Trump, ANI reported.

According to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office, Modi, during the call, highlighted the progress achieved in terms of improving inter-country partnership.

Reportedly, Trump reverted Modi's words with a similar message and expressed satisfaction over the relationship and its progress. Trump also reiterated his readiness to improving ties. 
 
"He expressed satisfaction at the achievements in the relationship in the last few years and reiterated his readiness for further deepening bilateral cooperation", PMO India said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-this-year-be-filled-with-joy-and-prosperity-pm-modi-tweets-out-271326">May this year be filled with joy and prosperity: PM Modi tweets out&nbsp;</a> 
 
According to the statement, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-lauds-mps-for-record-breaking-parliament-sessions-270872">PM Modi</a> used the words ''trust, mutual respect, and understanding'' to describe the relationship shared by two countries.

During the call, PM Modi also extended New Year greetings to President Trump, his family and the people of the United States. In return, Donald Trump also extended greetings to Indians by wishing for prosperity and progress.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Mann Ki Baat: 60th episode of PM Modi's monthly radio programme

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/mann-ki-baat-60th-episode-of-pm-modis-monthly-radio-programme-270821/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The Prime Minister stated that India-US relations, which are built on trust, mutual respect and understanding, have grown from strength to strength. The Prime Minister highlighted the significant progress made in deepening the Strategic Partnership between the two countries in the previous year and expressed his desire to continue to work with President Trump for enhancing cooperation in all areas of mutual interest," the statement read.

(With inputs from ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently spoke to United States President Donald Trump on the phone and told him that the relationship between both the countries has grown ''from strength to strength''.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently spoke to United States President Donald Trump on the phone and told him that the relationship between both the countries has grown ''from strength to strength''. Modi further reaffirmed his dedication to cooperation between the countries to Trump, ANI reported. According to a statement released by the Prime Minister's office, Modi, during the call, highlighted the progress achieved in terms of improving inter-country partnership. Reportedly, Trump reverted Modi's words with a similar message and expressed satisfaction over the relationship and its progress. Trump also reiterated his readiness to improving ties. "He expressed satisfaction at the achievements in the relationship in the last few years and reiterated his readiness for further deepening bilateral cooperation", PMO India said. Also read: May this year be filled with joy and prosperity: PM Modi tweets out According to the statement, PM Modi used the words ''trust, mutual respect, and understanding'' to describe the relationship shared by two countries. During the call, PM Modi also extended New Year greetings to President Trump, his family and the people of the United States. In return, Donald Trump also extended greetings to Indians by wishing for prosperity and progress. Watch: Mann Ki Baat: 60th episode of PM Modi's monthly radio programme "The Prime Minister stated that India-US relations, which are built on trust, mutual respect and understanding, have grown from strength to strength. The Prime Minister highlighted the significant progress made in deepening the Strategic Partnership between the two countries in the previous year and expressed his desire to continue to work with President Trump for enhancing cooperation in all areas of mutual interest," the statement read. (With inputs from ANI)

Our relationship has grown from 'strength to strength': PM Modi tells Donald Trump on the phone

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

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

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

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

Four&nbsp;Kenyan&nbsp;civilians&nbsp;were&nbsp;killed&nbsp;in a gunfight on Tuesday between police and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-shabaab-militants-storm-military-base-in-somalia-kill-3-american-citizens-272394">al&nbsp;Shabaab&nbsp;militants</a> from Somalia who&nbsp;attacked a&nbsp;telecommunications&nbsp;mast&nbsp;in the third such deadly incident in Kenya this week, police said.

Officers&nbsp;killed&nbsp;two&nbsp;attackers and recovered two assault rifles and bomb-making materials, police spokesman Charles Owino said.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-bid-to-boost-tourism-uae-launches-multiple-entry-visas-for-all-272626">United States</a> has sent more troops to Kenya to reinforce security after&nbsp;al&nbsp;Shabaab&nbsp;killed&nbsp;three Americans on Sunday in an&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on a military base in Kenya used by US&nbsp;forces.

In the latest incident, police said militants fired at a&nbsp;mast&nbsp;belonging to Kenya's leading operator Safaricom and at police guarding the facility.

"Officers manning the&nbsp;mast&nbsp;and the base together with special&nbsp;forces were able to repulse them," police said.

The raid took place in northern Garissa county, which neighbours Somalia. The&nbsp;attackers did not damage the&nbsp;telecom&nbsp;network, police said.

A teacher and a child were among the dead, Owino said.

Al&nbsp;Shabaab&nbsp;frequently carries out&nbsp;attacks in Kenya in retaliation for Kenya sending troops into Somalia in 2011 after a series of cross-border&nbsp;attacks and kidnappings.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-20-killed-in-car-bomb-attack-in-somalia-270726">Kenyans</a> were later absorbed into an African Union peacekeeping force, now 21,000-strong, which supports the shaky, Western-backed Somali government.

Al&nbsp;Qaeda-linked&nbsp;al&nbsp;Shabaab&nbsp;has waged an insurgency in Somalia since 2008, aiming to topple the government and impose its own strict interpretation of Sharia law.

On Sunday,&nbsp;al&nbsp;Shabaab&nbsp;destroyed six aircraft and&nbsp;killed&nbsp;three Americans during the&nbsp;attack&nbsp;on Camp Simba in coastal&nbsp;Lamu country. On Thursday, the insurgents&nbsp;killed&nbsp;three&nbsp;civilians&nbsp;on a bus in the same county.

Four Kenyan civilians were killed in a gunfight on Tuesday between police and al Shabaab militants from Somalia who attacked a telecommunications mast in the third such deadly incident in Kenya this week, police said.

Four Kenyan civilians were killed in a gunfight on Tuesday between police and al Shabaab militants from Somalia who attacked a telecommunications mast in the third such deadly incident in Kenya this week, police said. Officers killed two attackers and recovered two assault rifles and bomb-making materials, police spokesman Charles Owino said. The United States has sent more troops to Kenya to reinforce security after al Shabaab killed three Americans on Sunday in an attack on a military base in Kenya used by US forces. In the latest incident, police said militants fired at a mast belonging to Kenya's leading operator Safaricom and at police guarding the facility. "Officers manning the mast and the base together with special forces were able to repulse them," police said. The raid took place in northern Garissa county, which neighbours Somalia. The attackers did not damage the telecom network, police said. A teacher and a child were among the dead, Owino said. Al Shabaab frequently carries out attacks in Kenya in retaliation for Kenya sending troops into Somalia in 2011 after a series of cross-border attacks and kidnappings. The Kenyans were later absorbed into an African Union peacekeeping force, now 21,000-strong, which supports the shaky, Western-backed Somali government. Al Qaeda-linked al Shabaab has waged an insurgency in Somalia since 2008, aiming to topple the government and impose its own strict interpretation of Sharia law. On Sunday, al Shabaab destroyed six aircraft and killed three Americans during the attack on Camp Simba in coastal Lamu country. On Thursday, the insurgents killed three civilians on a bus in the same county.

Kenya: Four civilians killed in al Shabaab 'gunfight' with Police on telecom mast

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/mexico-and-pemex-facing-downgrading-risks-in-2020-as-economic-growth-halts-271933">Mexican government</a> on Monday revised upward by as much as 50 per cent&nbsp;the number of citizens classified as missing to more than 61,000, the vast majority of them victims of the country's grinding war with powerful drug gangs that have grown more violent.

The new figure from the one-year-old administration of leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador compares to about 40,000 missing cited by the government as recently as June.

"The official data of missing persons is 61,637," Karla Quintana, head of the National Registry of Missing or Missing Persons (RNPED), told a news conference. She said 25.7 per cent&nbsp;of them were women.

<img alt="Moscow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbeeee61-bceb-441b-836a-1edb1bedf1ac" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2814%29_2.jpg" /> 
Image: Members of the Mexican National Guard stand guard as they keep watch outside the prison after sixteen inmates were killed and five were wounded in a prison fight at the Regional Center for Social Reintegration in the town of Cieneguillas, located on the western flank of state capital Zacatecas,&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;December 31, 2019 | Reuters

More than 97.4 per cent&nbsp;of the total have gone missing since 2006, when then-President Felipe Calderon sent the army to the streets to fight drug traffickers, fragmenting the cartels, which made combating them more difficult.

President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-administration-begins-formal-exit-from-paris-climate-pact-259963">Donald&nbsp;Trump</a>&nbsp;offered&nbsp; to help&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-accuses-bolivia-of-intimidating-its-diplomats-in-la-paz-269871">Mexico</a>&nbsp;hunt the killers of nine Mormon women and children shot dead in a lawless border area&nbsp;and said the United States stood ready to back its southern neighbour in a "war"&nbsp;on&nbsp;the drug&nbsp;cartels.

Gunmen ambushed the members of the LeBaron family,&nbsp;a large clan of&nbsp;Mormons&nbsp;who emigrated to&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;in the late 19th century,&nbsp;on&nbsp;a rural road Monday between the states of Sonora and Chihuahua, which border the United States.

<img alt="Mexico" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84775359-5788-4f50-ad82-3664d8f1d5b3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2815%29_7.jpg" /> 
Image: Police officers stand atop a vehicle as they keep watch outside the prison after sixteen inmates were killed and five were wounded in a prison fight at the Regional Center for Social Reintegration in the town of Cieneguillas, located on the western flank of state capital Zacatecas,&nbsp;Mexico&nbsp;December 31, 2019 | Reuters

Earlier, The United States announced that it&nbsp;will expand the scope of a program that returns non-Mexican migrants crossing Mexico's border to that country to await their US&nbsp;court hearings, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/immigration-hawk-promoted-to-us-homeland-security-acting-deputy-262013">Department of Homeland Security</a>.

Washington already has sent more than 56,000 migrants to Mexico under the programme, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). The majority have been Central Americans applying for US asylum.

The Mexican government on Monday revised upward by as much as 50 per cent the number of citizens classified as missing to more than 61,000, the vast majority of them victims of the country's grinding war with powerful drug gangs that have grown more violent.

The Mexican government on Monday revised upward by as much as 50 per cent the number of citizens classified as missing to more than 61,000, the vast majority of them victims of the country's grinding war with powerful drug gangs that have grown more violent. The new figure from the one-year-old administration of leftist President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador compares to about 40,000 missing cited by the government as recently as June. "The official data of missing persons is 61,637," Karla Quintana, head of the National Registry of Missing or Missing Persons (RNPED), told a news conference. She said 25.7 per cent of them were women. Image: Members of the Mexican National Guard stand guard as they keep watch outside the prison after sixteen inmates were killed and five were wounded in a prison fight at the Regional Center for Social Reintegration in the town of Cieneguillas, located on the western flank of state capital Zacatecas, Mexico December 31, 2019 | Reuters More than 97.4 per cent of the total have gone missing since 2006, when then-President Felipe Calderon sent the army to the streets to fight drug traffickers, fragmenting the cartels, which made combating them more difficult. President Donald Trump offered to help Mexico hunt the killers of nine Mormon women and children shot dead in a lawless border area and said the United States stood ready to back its southern neighbour in a "war" on the drug cartels. Gunmen ambushed the members of the LeBaron family, a large clan of Mormons who emigrated to Mexico in the late 19th century, on a rural road Monday between the states of Sonora and Chihuahua, which border the United States. Image: Police officers stand atop a vehicle as they keep watch outside the prison after sixteen inmates were killed and five were wounded in a prison fight at the Regional Center for Social Reintegration in the town of Cieneguillas, located on the western flank of state capital Zacatecas, Mexico December 31, 2019 | Reuters Earlier, The United States announced that it will expand the scope of a program that returns non-Mexican migrants crossing Mexico's border to that country to await their US court hearings, the Department of Homeland Security. Washington already has sent more than 56,000 migrants to Mexico under the programme, known as the Migrant Protection Protocols (MPP). The majority have been Central Americans applying for US asylum.

Mexican drug war: More than 61,000 classified as missing

Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Reed headed to a playoff after finishing tied at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/woodland-maintains-lead-mcilroy-in-pursuit-in-hawaii-188493">Tournament of Champions</a> in Hawaii on Sunday.

Thomas had one hand on the trophy with a one-shot lead at the par-five 18th but hooked his three-wood second shot into a penalty area and could not find his ball in the waist-high tropical grass.

He ran up a bogey for a four-under-par 69, while <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-tiger-woods-to-sit-out-saturday-fourballs-at-presidents-cup-268043">Schauffele</a> reached the green in two shots, only to three-putt for par and a round of 70 when a birdie would have won it at the Kapalua Plantation course on the island of Maui.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/presidents-cup-internationals-stun-us-to-lead-presidents-cup-4-1-267935">Reed</a> was already in the clubhouse after a round of 66 when he suddenly found himself heading to the playoff with his two fellow Americans at 14-under-par 278.

Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Reed headed to a playoff after finishing tied at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii on Sunday. Thomas had one hand on the trophy with a one-shot lead at the par-five 18th but hooked his three-wood second shot into a penalty area and could not find his ball in the waist-high tropical grass.

Justin Thomas, Xander Schauffele and Patrick Reed headed to a playoff after finishing tied at the Tournament of Champions in Hawaii on Sunday. Thomas had one hand on the trophy with a one-shot lead at the par-five 18th but hooked his three-wood second shot into a penalty area and could not find his ball in the waist-high tropical grass. He ran up a bogey for a four-under-par 69, while Schauffele reached the green in two shots, only to three-putt for par and a round of 70 when a birdie would have won it at the Kapalua Plantation course on the island of Maui. Reed was already in the clubhouse after a round of 66 when he suddenly found himself heading to the playoff with his two fellow Americans at 14-under-par 278.

Golf: Thomas, Schauffele, Reed in playoff at Tournament of Champions

The repercussions of escalating tensions after the United States executed a top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani could have a bearing on India’s exports of basmati rice, which has made exporters of the commodity a worried lot. Basmati exports to Iran, which stood at 33 per cent or about $1.56 billion in 2018-19, had already weathered uncertainty following the US’s sanctions against Iran last year. Recent developments have only added to this. Till October, exports were $570 million, which accounted for 26% of exports. #BasmatiExports #SoleimaniKilling #US #Iran

Fineprint: US-Iran row may hit Basmati business

International law may not be a major consideration in debates about the US killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, yet the legality of the assassination could prove to have long-term consequences for whether the rule of law or the law of the jungle dominates a new world order.

The Trump administration has asserted that killing Soleimani was necessary to avert an imminent attack on US targets that allegedly was being planned by Soleimani and Abdul Mahdi al-Muhandis - the leader of an Iranian-backed Iraqi militia - who also died in the attack.

The assertion, yet to be backed up by evidence, served to justify the attack and fend off allegations that the targetted killing violated both the US and international law.

The implication was that Soleimani’s death would thwart an unspecified imminent attack and stop the Iranians in their tracks, an assumption that has little foundation in reality given Iran’s track record, most recently its refusal to buckle under following the imposition in 2018 of harsh US economic sanctions, some of the harshest ever imposed.

The notion that the killing of Soleimani amounted to rule of the jungle rather than rule of law was reinforced by assertions by Iraqi prime minister Adel Abdul Mahdi that he had been asked by Trump to mediate with Iran and that the Iranian military leader had been carrying Iran’s response to a Saudi initiative to defuse tension when he was assassinated.

Abdul Mahdi’s allegation that Soleimani was involved in efforts to dial down tensions came in a debate in Parliament in which lawmakers called in a resolution for the removal from Iraq of foreign forces, the bulk of which are Americans.

Abdul Mahdi’s assertion that Iran was responding to a Saudi initiative was all the more noteworthy given that the kingdom had reportedly recently put its indirect outreach to Iran on hold as anti-government protesters in Iraq and Lebanon targeted Iranian influence in their countries.

“Americans, once the most prominent proponents of international law as the regulator of relations between nations, have now fully validated the law of the jungle. We are now likely to experience it," said Chas W Freeman Jr, a former career US State Department official in an email to a private mailing list.

Conservative commentator Robert Kagan warned in a book published last year, bemoaning America’s withdrawal as an enforcer of international law, a notion challenged by an array of critics, that chaos was the world’s historical norm. “The jungle will grow back, if we let it,” Kagan argued.

The sense that Trump, like many of the world’s civilisational leaders, has no regard for international law was evident, particularly to Iranians, in his threat to attack Iranian cultural sites if Iran retaliates for the killing of Soleimani.

Trump did not specify what he meant by cultural. Some analysts suggested the President may have been referring to symbols like the mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of Iran’s Islamic republic.

Legal experts nonetheless warned that attacks on cultural sites amount to a war crime.

With millions in the streets to welcome the return of Soleimani’s body, Iranians used the hashtag #IranianCulturalSites to respond to the threat by posting online pictures of mosques, museums, monuments, archaeological sites, and other Iranian architectural marvels.

Similarly, with Iraq perceiving the US strikes as a violation of the country’s sovereignty, Iraqis may, alongside Iranians, be one of the few who, perhaps self-serving, factor adherence to international law in their debates.

In line with the comments of Messrs. Freeman and Kagan, the legal aspects of &nbsp;Soleimani’s killing take on a significance that goes far beyond the Middle East in an environment in which civilisational leaders like India’s Narendra Modi, China’s Xi Jinping, Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Myanmar’s Win Myint flout international law with impunity.

Violations of international law grounded in the propagation of concepts of a civilizational rather than a nation-state that defines its borders not in terms of internationally recognised frontiers, but blurry lines of civilisational reach, have occurred in recent years fast and furious.

Iraqi assertions of a US violation of sovereignty echo Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and intervention in eastern Ukraine. Trump has ignored United Nations Security Council resolutions by unilaterally recognising Israeli annexation of East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights.

Myint stands accused of ethnic cleansing by the United Nations that has prompted hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. Massive evidence documents Jinping’s authorisation of the brutal repression of Turkic Muslims in the troubled north-western Chinese province of Xinjiang while Modi appears to be progressively disenfranchising his country’s Muslim minority.

For his part, Soleimani is believed to have been responsible for numerous incidents of political violence, including a 2012 attack on tourists in Bulgaria executed by a Lebanese suicide bomber. Five of the six casualties were Israelis.

Adopting the principle of might is right, civilizational leaders’ abandonment of international law, including guarantees of basic and minority rights, risks creating a global jungle in which wars, political violence, marginalisation of ethnic and religious groups, and destabilising&nbsp;mass migration contribute to rule of the jungle rather than rule of law.

So do Western approaches adopted almost two decades ago in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington.

Said at the time Robert Cooper, a British diplomat, former advisor to prime minister Tony Blair, a current advisor to the European Commission on Myanmar, and a proponent of the doctrine of new liberal imperialism who in 2011 defended Bahrain’s brutal repression of a popular uprising:

If the world has a civilized core that deserves lawful conduct, there also is a barbarous periphery that warrants “rougher methods of an earlier era… Postmodern states operate on the basis of laws and open co-operative security” but “in the jungle, one must use the laws of the jungle.”

Some two decades after Cooper wrote those words, the jungle rather than the rule of law threatens to become the norm, putting the global community on a dangerous and slippery slope.

(Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) 
&nbsp;

International law may not be a major consideration in debates about the US killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, yet the legality of the assassination could prove to have long-term consequences for whether the rule of law or the law of the jungle dominates a new world order.

International law may not be a major consideration in debates about the US killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, yet the legality of the assassination could prove to have long-term consequences for whether the rule of law or the law of the jungle dominates a new world order. The Trump administration has asserted that killing Soleimani was necessary to avert an imminent attack on US targets that allegedly was being planned by Soleimani and Abdul Mahdi al-Muhandis - the leader of an Iranian-backed Iraqi militia - who also died in the attack. The assertion, yet to be backed up by evidence, served to justify the attack and fend off allegations that the targetted killing violated both the US and international law. The implication was that Soleimani’s death would thwart an unspecified imminent attack and stop the Iranians in their tracks, an assumption that has little foundation in reality given Iran’s track record, most recently its refusal to buckle under following the imposition in 2018 of harsh US economic sanctions, some of the harshest ever imposed. The notion that the killing of Soleimani amounted to rule of the jungle rather than rule of law was reinforced by assertions by Iraqi prime minister Adel Abdul Mahdi that he had been asked by Trump to mediate with Iran and that the Iranian military leader had been carrying Iran’s response to a Saudi initiative to defuse tension when he was assassinated. Abdul Mahdi’s allegation that Soleimani was involved in efforts to dial down tensions came in a debate in Parliament in which lawmakers called in a resolution for the removal from Iraq of foreign forces, the bulk of which are Americans. Abdul Mahdi’s assertion that Iran was responding to a Saudi initiative was all the more noteworthy given that the kingdom had reportedly recently put its indirect outreach to Iran on hold as anti-government protesters in Iraq and Lebanon targeted Iranian influence in their countries. “Americans, once the most prominent proponents of international law as the regulator of relations between nations, have now fully validated the law of the jungle. We are now likely to experience it," said Chas W Freeman Jr, a former career US State Department official in an email to a private mailing list. Conservative commentator Robert Kagan warned in a book published last year, bemoaning America’s withdrawal as an enforcer of international law, a notion challenged by an array of critics, that chaos was the world’s historical norm. “The jungle will grow back, if we let it,” Kagan argued. The sense that Trump, like many of the world’s civilisational leaders, has no regard for international law was evident, particularly to Iranians, in his threat to attack Iranian cultural sites if Iran retaliates for the killing of Soleimani. Trump did not specify what he meant by cultural. Some analysts suggested the President may have been referring to symbols like the mausoleum of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of Iran’s Islamic republic. Legal experts nonetheless warned that attacks on cultural sites amount to a war crime. With millions in the streets to welcome the return of Soleimani’s body, Iranians used the hashtag #IranianCulturalSites to respond to the threat by posting online pictures of mosques, museums, monuments, archaeological sites, and other Iranian architectural marvels. Similarly, with Iraq perceiving the US strikes as a violation of the country’s sovereignty, Iraqis may, alongside Iranians, be one of the few who, perhaps self-serving, factor adherence to international law in their debates. In line with the comments of Messrs. Freeman and Kagan, the legal aspects of Soleimani’s killing take on a significance that goes far beyond the Middle East in an environment in which civilisational leaders like India’s Narendra Modi, China’s Xi Jinping, Russia’s Vladimir Putin and Myanmar’s Win Myint flout international law with impunity. Violations of international law grounded in the propagation of concepts of a civilizational rather than a nation-state that defines its borders not in terms of internationally recognised frontiers, but blurry lines of civilisational reach, have occurred in recent years fast and furious. Iraqi assertions of a US violation of sovereignty echo Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and intervention in eastern Ukraine. Trump has ignored United Nations Security Council resolutions by unilaterally recognising Israeli annexation of East Jerusalem and the Golan Heights. Myint stands accused of ethnic cleansing by the United Nations that has prompted hundreds of thousands of Rohingya to flee to Bangladesh. Massive evidence documents Jinping’s authorisation of the brutal repression of Turkic Muslims in the troubled north-western Chinese province of Xinjiang while Modi appears to be progressively disenfranchising his country’s Muslim minority. For his part, Soleimani is believed to have been responsible for numerous incidents of political violence, including a 2012 attack on tourists in Bulgaria executed by a Lebanese suicide bomber. Five of the six casualties were Israelis. Adopting the principle of might is right, civilizational leaders’ abandonment of international law, including guarantees of basic and minority rights, risks creating a global jungle in which wars, political violence, marginalisation of ethnic and religious groups, and destabilising mass migration contribute to rule of the jungle rather than rule of law. So do Western approaches adopted almost two decades ago in the wake of the 9/11 attacks on New York and Washington. Said at the time Robert Cooper, a British diplomat, former advisor to prime minister Tony Blair, a current advisor to the European Commission on Myanmar, and a proponent of the doctrine of new liberal imperialism who in 2011 defended Bahrain’s brutal repression of a popular uprising: If the world has a civilized core that deserves lawful conduct, there also is a barbarous periphery that warrants “rougher methods of an earlier era… Postmodern states operate on the basis of laws and open co-operative security” but “in the jungle, one must use the laws of the jungle.” Some two decades after Cooper wrote those words, the jungle rather than the rule of law threatens to become the norm, putting the global community on a dangerous and slippery slope. (Views expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Does the killing of Qasem Soleimani violate international law?

The Golden Globes is the first major awards show of the year and the glitzy nominees and presenters took to the red carpet at the Beverly Hilton on Sunday (January 5).

Awards season kicks off with a celebrity-filled Golden Globes carpet

The funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani took place on the streets of Ahvaz city in Iran. Thousands of Iranian mourn the death of Former Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qasem Soleimani. #QasemSoleimani #QasemSoleimaniFuneral #Soleimani #US #Iran #WION

Funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani, thousands Iranian mourn Soleimani's death

In the wake of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-target-52-iranian-sites-if-americans-are-attacked-donald-trump-272166">top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing</a> by the&nbsp;United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert.

The Department of Homeland Security on Saturday updated its terrorism threat advisory system.&nbsp;

The new National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin was issued by acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and&nbsp;warned of a potential Iranian threat including a cyberattack.&nbsp;

The bulletin stated that Iran has a robust cyber programme and can carry out a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hackers-claim-breach-of-us-government-website-272193">cyberattack against the United States</a>.&nbsp;

In the bulletin, Wolf said that there is "no specific, credible threat against the homeland", highlighting the fact that Iran and its partners have had shown the intentions to carry out operations in the United States previously.&nbsp;

"An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning," the release read.&nbsp;

Wolf said that the homeland security department, as well as various agencies, are taking protective measures also cautioning of the possibility of Iran using terrorist activities in retaliation to Soleimani's assassination.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iraq?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iraq</a>: Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy. <a href="https://t.co/rdRce3Qr4a">pic.twitter.com/rdRce3Qr4a</a>
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"Homegrown violent extremists could capitalise on the heightened tensions to launch individual attacks," the bulletin read.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, shortly after the homeland department's bulletin warned of a potential cyberattack form Iran, Tehran hackers claimed to breach a US government website.&nbsp;

A group, that claimed to be Iranian hackers, breached the website of US Federal Depository Library Program on Saturday.&nbsp;

The website bore a message vowing revenge for top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani's killing in US airstrikes.

The website also displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with the Iranian flag.

Iran's elite military force's commander Qasem Soleimani was killed on January 3 in US airstrikes that were carried out at the Baghdad International Airport.&nbsp;

Soleimani headed the Revolutionary Guards for over two decades and was among the topmost people in the country.&nbsp;

In the wake of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing by the United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert.

In the wake of top Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani's killing by the United States, Washington has issued a terror advisory to the American public to stay alert. The Department of Homeland Security on Saturday updated its terrorism threat advisory system. The new National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin was issued by acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf and warned of a potential Iranian threat including a cyberattack. The bulletin stated that Iran has a robust cyber programme and can carry out a cyberattack against the United States. In the bulletin, Wolf said that there is "no specific, credible threat against the homeland", highlighting the fact that Iran and its partners have had shown the intentions to carry out operations in the United States previously. "An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning," the release read. Wolf said that the homeland security department, as well as various agencies, are taking protective measures also cautioning of the possibility of Iran using terrorist activities in retaliation to Soleimani's assassination. #Iraq: Due to heightened tensions in Iraq and the region, we urge U.S. citizens to depart Iraq immediately. Due to Iranian-backed militia attacks at the U.S. Embassy compound, all consular operations are suspended. U.S. citizens should not approach the Embassy. pic.twitter.com/rdRce3Qr4a — Travel - State Dept (@TravelGov) January 3, 2020 × "Homegrown violent extremists could capitalise on the heightened tensions to launch individual attacks," the bulletin read. Meanwhile, shortly after the homeland department's bulletin warned of a potential cyberattack form Iran, Tehran hackers claimed to breach a US government website. A group, that claimed to be Iranian hackers, breached the website of US Federal Depository Library Program on Saturday. The website bore a message vowing revenge for top Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani's killing in US airstrikes. The website also displayed images of Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei along with the Iranian flag. Iran's elite military force's commander Qasem Soleimani was killed on January 3 in US airstrikes that were carried out at the Baghdad International Airport. Soleimani headed the Revolutionary Guards for over two decades and was among the topmost people in the country.

An attack in the homeland may come with little or no warning: US Department of Homeland Security 

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Sunday said that he spoke to Iran foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and added ''India remains deeply concerned about the levels of tension''. #WION #Iran #NuclearDeal #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #SJaishankar

India contacts West Asian nations amid escalating tensions

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

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

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. "Like ISIS, Like Hitler, Like Genghis! They all hate cultures. Trump is a terrorist in a suit. He will learn history very soon that NOBODY can defeat 'the Great Iranian Nation & Culture'," Information and Telecommunications Minister Mohammad Javad Azari-Jahromi tweeted. #WION #Iran #NuclearDeal #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani

Iran to take 5th step back from Nuclear deal

In 2011, Donald Trump claimed through a video that President Barack Obama (Ex-US President) will start a war with Iran as he doesn't have another option because he is weak now." That video of 2011 resurfacing on the internet as it has been claimed by some that present U.S. President Donald Trump is trying out the same method. Is it his hypocrisy that has been revealed? #USElection #US #DonaldTrump #Iran #Iraq #QasemSoleimani #WION

Trump's 2011 video resurfaces on internet claiming, "Obama will attack Iran to win polls"

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices. But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the United States the political dynamics become interesting. #WION #Iran #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani

Impact on India as US-Iran tension escalates

The funeral procession of Qasem Soleimani took place on the streets of Ahvaz city in Iran. Thousands of Iranian mourn the death of Former Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Qasem Soleimani. #WION #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #Iran

Iran: Thousands pay respect to Qasem Soleimani

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-lacks-courage-for-military-confrontation-with-iran-iran-army-chief-272304">Iran</a>'s top military general <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dominic-raab-calls-for-de-escalation-of-tensions-after-killing-of-menace-soleimani-272295">Qasem Soleimani's killing</a> has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices.

But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/an-attack-in-the-homeland-may-come-with-little-or-no-warning-us-department-of-homeland-security-272207">United States</a> the political dynamics become interesting.

The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially.

The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia.&nbsp;

Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act.&nbsp;

The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meatloaf-and-ice-cream-trump-savoured-an-all-american-meal-as-pentagon-confirmed-soleimanis-killing-272061">Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing</a>

<img alt="Iran " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a63e78ed-ed6e-43db-a27a-673d0c16bce0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/iran%20oil.jpg" />

Vital interests

India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala.

Transit route&nbsp;

Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. &nbsp;India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US.

The balancing act

Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time.&nbsp;

US-India ties

The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act&nbsp;

The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi.

For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq.

<img alt="us-india ties" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5d6ebbb7-9eab-401c-a291-d51c90a7ce0a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/us-india.jpg" />

Neutral stance

Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods.

After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests.

<img alt="oil" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="129f6695-8efc-493a-b2df-6527ed0ed945" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oil.jpg" />

Oil matters

More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-invites-iranian-foreign-minister-zarif-to-brussels-amid-rising-middle-east-tension-272290">Javad Zarif</a> stated that India must stand up to the bully.

India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely.

Iran's top military general Qasem Soleimani's killing has sent shockwaves across the world. Diplomatic channels in almost every nation are watching the developments closely. The Indian government as well has found itself in a tough spot. The immediate fallout before PM Modi and his policy advisers will be managing the spike in global oil prices. But looking at India's history with Iran and the current relations with the United States the political dynamics become interesting. The stage upon which this geopolitical conflict was playing out until now has expanded exponentially. The Shia Muslim population of India have deep cultural, spiritual and historical connections with Tehran. The terms 'Namaz' and 'Khuda Hafiz' find their roots in Persia. Interestingly, these protests come at a time when a significant portion of the Muslim community in India is already protesting the Citizenship Amendment Act. The Indian government knows that its response to the escalating crisis has to factor in the sentiments of the community at large. Also read: Meatloaf and ice cream - Trump savoured an all-American meal as Pentagon confirmed Soleimani's killing Vital interests India has vital interests in the Middle East. In the Gulf alone, India has close to 9 million residents. This region is a significant source of Indian oil and gas imports as well as remittances, especially to the state of Kerala. Transit route Importantly, India hoped that this region will serve as a transit route to Afghanistan and Central Asia, including through the Iranian port of Chabahar. India even has a sanction exemption for it from the US. The balancing act Perhaps, the biggest challenge for India is to balance the entire act. The government has tried to walk a tightrope over the past few years maintaining ties with Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Israel and being extremely cautious of not antagonising America at the same time. US-India ties The US, unlike in the past, has refrained from appearing hostile toward's prime minister Modi's stance on Pakistan. It did not even condemn India's Balakot strike or the abrogation of article 370 and the Citizenship Amendment Act The US is India's second-largest trading partner after China and a superpower which India doesn't want to work against. Especially, after Trump's significant remarks about Soleimani having had a key role in the attack on an Israeli diplomat in Delhi. For the second time, New Delhi is finding itself at the crossroads due to the ongoing tensions between Iran and Iraq. Neutral stance Before the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, India's ties with the country suffered due to the UN sanctions on Iraq. But India soon developed trade within the oil-for-food program, which permitted Iraq to export oil for essential goods. After the US invasion of Iraq, India maintained a neutral stance and had even condemned military action against Iraq but later almost joined the coalition under the US backroom diplomacy only to eventually back off due to public sentiment and opposition protests. Oil matters More recently, the US sanctions on Iran have forced India's hand on the most vital commodity - oil. Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif stated that India must stand up to the bully. India has managed to make up for the loss of Iranian oil with other imports but PM Modi knows that oil is a commodity that can cause a massive political upheaval in India.

As tension escalates between US and Iran, how is India impacted and what are New Delhi's options?  

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/equation-in-air-battle-would-have-been-different-if-abhinandan-was-flying-rafale-dhanoa-272211">Pakistan</a> has extended tacit support to the United States over its action against Iran earlier this week in exchange for the resumption of military cooperation with Washington, in a move that led to the latter authorising the reinstatement of a military training and educational program which had remained suspended for two years. 
 
Citing Intelligence sources, Asian Lite reported that Islamabad, which blamed Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Major Gen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-gives-lawmakers-formal-notice-of-iraq-strike-amid-complaints-from-democrats-272196">Qassem Soleimani</a> for Baloch militant attacks against its forces, found an opportunity to "kill two birds with one stone" when Washington sought its support after the airstrikes near the Baghdad international airport. 
 
It may be noted that the Washington's announcement to authorise the resumption of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-resume-military-training-program-for-pakistan-state-department-269269">International Military Education and Training</a> (IMET) for strengthening "military to military cooperation on shared priorities and advance US national security" came hours after US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo spoke to Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-seeks-power-to-extend-tenure-of-bajwa-271791">Qamar Javed Bajwa</a> in the aftermath of the airstrike. 
 
"Pakistan's Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about US defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani. The Iran regime's actions in the region are destabilising and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver," Pompeo had tweeted. 
 
Pakistan has remained conspicuous by its silence over the US airstrikes and subsequent escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. 
 
Citing a leaked letter of Pakistan Foreign Ministry, The Asian Lite report further asserted that as many as 14 members of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terror-camps-continues-to-exist-in-pakistan-army-chief-mm-naravane-to-wion-271729">Pakistan</a> Armed Forces were killed recently by "Baloch militants" based in Iran. It was one of the several attacks sponsored by Iranian intelligence chief Soleimani against Pakistan. 
 
The IMET programme was frozen for Pakistan by the Trump Administration two years ago due to Islamabad's lack of action against terror groups. 
 
It may be noted that the State Department administers IMET, a programme which offers spaces to foreign military officers at US military education institutions, such as the US Army War College and the US Naval War College. 
 
Pakistan-based The News International has reported a State Department spokeswoman as saying that the programme "provides an opportunity to increase bilateral cooperation between our countries on shared priorities. We want to continue to build on this foundation through concrete actions that advance regional security and stability."

Pakistan has extended tacit support to the United States over its action against Iran earlier this week in exchange for the resumption of military cooperation with Washington, in a move that led to the latter authorising the reinstatement of a military training and educational program which had remained suspended for two years.

Pakistan has extended tacit support to the United States over its action against Iran earlier this week in exchange for the resumption of military cooperation with Washington, in a move that led to the latter authorising the reinstatement of a military training and educational program which had remained suspended for two years. Citing Intelligence sources, Asian Lite reported that Islamabad, which blamed Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Major Gen Qassem Soleimani for Baloch militant attacks against its forces, found an opportunity to "kill two birds with one stone" when Washington sought its support after the airstrikes near the Baghdad international airport. It may be noted that the Washington's announcement to authorise the resumption of International Military Education and Training (IMET) for strengthening "military to military cooperation on shared priorities and advance US national security" came hours after US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo spoke to Pakistan Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Qamar Javed Bajwa in the aftermath of the airstrike. "Pakistan's Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about US defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani. The Iran regime's actions in the region are destabilising and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver," Pompeo had tweeted. Pakistan has remained conspicuous by its silence over the US airstrikes and subsequent escalation of tensions between Washington and Tehran. Citing a leaked letter of Pakistan Foreign Ministry, The Asian Lite report further asserted that as many as 14 members of Pakistan Armed Forces were killed recently by "Baloch militants" based in Iran. It was one of the several attacks sponsored by Iranian intelligence chief Soleimani against Pakistan. The IMET programme was frozen for Pakistan by the Trump Administration two years ago due to Islamabad's lack of action against terror groups. It may be noted that the State Department administers IMET, a programme which offers spaces to foreign military officers at US military education institutions, such as the US Army War College and the US Naval War College. Pakistan-based The News International has reported a State Department spokeswoman as saying that the programme "provides an opportunity to increase bilateral cooperation between our countries on shared priorities. We want to continue to build on this foundation through concrete actions that advance regional security and stability."

Pakistan ditches Iran, extends tacit support to US over airstrikes for resumption in military cooperation

Iranian Parliament MPs shouted "Death to America!" On Sunday during a session to discuss the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani in a US military strike. #IranianParliament #QasemSoleimani

Iran MPs chant 'Death to America' as Soleimani's body brought back to Tehran

Democratic presidential contenders on Friday condemned the airstrike that killed Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani, saying President Donald Trump's decision was reckless and could lead the United States to another war in the Middle East. #JoeBiden #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #DonaldTrump #WION

Trump's rivals to the White House condemn Iran strike, suggested to avoid war

It seems like the U.S. is not quite finished with its operations in West Asia. Reports have claimed that the U.S. launched fresh airstrikes on the northern part of Baghdad targeting a militia convoy. But, militia group claimed that airstrike targeted medics, not the senior leaders. #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #WION

Fresh airstrikes in North Baghdad, 6 killed & 3 injured

Qassem Soleimani, the former head of the elite force in Iran was killed in a US airstrike on January 3. It seems like the U.S. is not quite finished with its operations in West Asia. Reports have claimed that the U.S. launched fresh airstrikes on the northern part of Baghdad targeting a militia convoy. US President Donald Trump also said that the General Qasem Soleimani plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now the reign of his terror is over. #Iraq #IraqAirStrike #US #IranGeneral #Soleimani #QasemSoleimani

What are Iran's options for retaliation?

Protests in India over killing of General Qassem Soleimani

World reacts to killing Iran's Soleimani by the U.S. Mideast countries & Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi on Monday condemned airstrikes by the United States on several bases belonging to an Iranian-backed militia group in Iraq and said the attack would have consequences. #WION #DonaldTrump #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran

World reacts to killing of Iran's Soleimani by U.S., Mideast countries condemn US strikes in Iraq

Basically, Quds force is also a part of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, IRGC helped Tehran fight proxy wars on the foreign soil. This force was formed on April 22, 1979. Iran shares close ties to supreme leader Khamenei. #IRGC #Iran #US #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #WION

Role of Iran's Revolutionary Guards in Iran-U.S. conflicts

It seems like the U.S. is not quite finished with its operations in West Asia. Reports have claimed that the U.S. launched fresh airstrikes on the northern part of Baghdad targeting a militia convoy. U.S. President Donald Trump said, "Qasem Soleimani has plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now the reign of his terror is over." #QasemSoleimani #Soleimani #US #Iran #DonaldTrump #WION

Trump: Soleimani plotted attacks in Delhi & London, now reign of his terror is over

What will be the consequences of Iran's General Qasem Soleimani's killing?

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