Is the war in West Asia changing gears? The fear of Gaza War escalating even further is increasing...within 24 hours of US forces shooting down 11 drones fired by the Houthi rebels over the Red Sea, the commander of the US Army Central Command is expected to visit Israel today to discuss the threat of an Iranian attack against Israel...Watch in for more details!

West Asia Crisis: US Intelligence warns Iran proxies could attack Israel

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - US extends 'ironclad' support to Israel - Russia urges citizens not to travel to West Asia - Vietnam: Real estate billionaire sentenced to death - Sunak spent over $2 Mn on focus groups

Vietnam: Real estate billionaire sentenced to death | Sunak spent over $2 Mn on focus groups

Is the United States losing its influence in West Asia? Can America's rivals pounce on Washington's weakening supremacy in the region? Watch in for more details!

West Asia picks Vladimir Putin over Biden and Xi Jinping

Biden's unpopularity in West Asia making room for his rivals?

Watch in top headlines of the hour: - EU parliament to vote on migration law overhaul - Flood devastation in Russia's Urals - Khamenei: Israel will be punished - US less popular in West Asia: Poll - Eid festivities begin in parts of the world

US less popular in West Asia: Poll | Flood devastation in Russia's Urals

On Wednesday the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken began his sixth West Asia tour since the onset of the Gaza War by holding talks in Saudi Arabia. On the agenda are meetings with Arab foreign ministers and a top Palestinian officials in Egypt...Watch in for more details!

West Asia Crisis: Antony Blinken heads to Middle East for 6th time since onset of Gaza war

West Asia: US Secy of State Antony Blinken meets Saudi crown-prince in Jeddah

Do you get stressed before a big flight? Don't worry! There is now a solution. The Istanbul airport has introduced a therapy dog program to help reduce stress and anxiety among passengers. Watch to know more!

Istanbul Airport's solution to pre-flight anxiety

Ramadan has begun and millions in West Asia are celebrating the holy month. They are hopping to markets, and spending precious moments with their families. Here are glimpses.

West Asia celebrates Ramadan

AlShaya Group, the retail giant holding the Starbucks franchise rights in West Asia, is set to lay off more than 2,000 employees as a consequence of dwindling consumer support stemming from the Gaza war-related boycotts. <o:p></o:p>

Reuters cited sources familiar with the matter, who revealed that the job cuts, initiated recently, account for approximately 4 per cent of AlShaya's extensive workforce of nearly 50,000 individuals. <o:p></o:p>

The impacted positions are primarily within the Starbucks franchise operating across the West Asia and North Africa.<o:p></o:p>

"The continually challenging trading conditions over the last six months have led to this sad and very difficult decision to reduce the number of colleagues in our Starbucks MENA stores," Reuters quoted AlShaya as saying.<o:p></o:p>

While AlShaya remains committed to extending support to affected employees and reiterates its dedication to the region, Starbucks expressed gratitude to departing staff members and noted its ongoing collaboration with AlShaya to foster long-term growth in the West Asia.<o:p></o:p>

AlShaya, a key player in the retail landscape of the West Asia, operates various Western brand franchises besides Starbucks, including The Cheesecake Factory and Shake Shack. <o:p></o:p>

The group has held the rights to Starbucks coffee shops in the region since 1999 and manages around 2,000 outlets across 13 countries in the West Asia, North Africa, and central Asia.<o:p></o:p>

In recent times, AlShaya's Starbucks business faced potential investment interest from US private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc.<o:p></o:p>

The boycotts, sparked by Israel's military actions in Gaza, have impacted Western brands operating in the West Asia. <o:p></o:p>

Starbucks, despite clarifying its apolitical stance, experienced repercussions from the unrest, affecting its market performance and prompting adjustments to its operations.<o:p></o:p>

The fallout from the Gaza conflict has had reverberations not only in the West Asia but also in the United States, where Starbucks saw a decline in sales due to protests and boycott campaigns demanding the company to take a stand on the issue.<o:p></o:p>

This development adds to AlShaya's recent challenges, as the group had announced plans to scale back operations in Egypt earlier, citing the country's economic turmoil characterised by currency devaluations and soaring inflation.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

AlShaya Group, the retail giant holding the Starbucks franchise rights in West Asia, is set to lay off more than 2,000 employees as a consequence of dwindling consumer support stemming from the Gaza war-related boycotts.

AlShaya Group, the retail giant holding the Starbucks franchise rights in West Asia, is set to lay off more than 2,000 employees as a consequence of dwindling consumer support stemming from the Gaza war-related boycotts. Reuters cited sources familiar with the matter, who revealed that the job cuts, initiated recently, account for approximately 4 per cent of AlShaya's extensive workforce of nearly 50,000 individuals. The impacted positions are primarily within the Starbucks franchise operating across the West Asia and North Africa. "The continually challenging trading conditions over the last six months have led to this sad and very difficult decision to reduce the number of colleagues in our Starbucks MENA stores," Reuters quoted AlShaya as saying. While AlShaya remains committed to extending support to affected employees and reiterates its dedication to the region, Starbucks expressed gratitude to departing staff members and noted its ongoing collaboration with AlShaya to foster long-term growth in the West Asia. AlShaya, a key player in the retail landscape of the West Asia, operates various Western brand franchises besides Starbucks, including The Cheesecake Factory and Shake Shack. The group has held the rights to Starbucks coffee shops in the region since 1999 and manages around 2,000 outlets across 13 countries in the West Asia, North Africa, and central Asia. In recent times, AlShaya's Starbucks business faced potential investment interest from US private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc. The boycotts, sparked by Israel's military actions in Gaza, have impacted Western brands operating in the West Asia. Starbucks, despite clarifying its apolitical stance, experienced repercussions from the unrest, affecting its market performance and prompting adjustments to its operations. The fallout from the Gaza conflict has had reverberations not only in the West Asia but also in the United States, where Starbucks saw a decline in sales due to protests and boycott campaigns demanding the company to take a stand on the issue. This development adds to AlShaya's recent challenges, as the group had announced plans to scale back operations in Egypt earlier, citing the country's economic turmoil characterised by currency devaluations and soaring inflation. (With inputs from Reuters)

Starbucks West Asia franchise AlShaya to cut thousands of jobs amid boycott fallout

More and more countries express interest in adding India's fastest cruise missile to its arsenal. Reports say many nations from West Asia and Africa have shown interest in acquiring these missiles.

Gravitas | BrahMos: West Asia, Africa show interest in India's supersonic missiles

The war ridden region of West Asia contends with a combination of oil production cuts and the lingering impact of the Israel Gaza War. Managing director of the International Monetary Fund issued warnings about the regions growth prospects emphasizing the need for reform in energy subsidies.

IMF: Global economy resilient despite West Asia challenges

In a recent address at the Arab Fiscal Forum in Dubai, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva highlighted concerns over the sluggish growth of West Asia economies. <o:p></o:p>

According to Reuters, Georgieva pointed to factors such as oil production cuts and the Israel-Gaza conflict as major contributors to the region's economic challenges.<o:p></o:p>

Georgieva emphasised the resilience of the global economy amidst uncertainties but cautioned about the potential wider impact on regional economies due to continued conflict in Gaza.<o:p></o:p>

&nbsp;She stated, "Despite uncertainties, the global economy has been surprisingly resilient," underscoring the need for vigilance amid ongoing conflicts.<o:p></o:p>

The IMF's regional economic report for the West Asia and North Africa last month downgraded GDP growth forecasts to 2.9 per cent for the year, citing short-term oil production cuts and the conflict in Gaza as significant factors. <o:p></o:p>

This revision lagged below previous projections made in October, reflecting persistent challenges faced by economies in the region.<o:p></o:p>

Georgieva highlighted the adverse effects of the Israel-Gaza conflict on tourism revenues in neighbouring economies and the impact of Red Sea attacks on global freight costs. <o:p></o:p>

These challenges further exacerbate the recovery process for economies already grappling with previous shocks, she noted.<o:p></o:p>

The ongoing conflict in the region, particularly the attacks by Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea, has disrupted global trade routes. <o:p></o:p>

Several major shippers have opted to divert traffic to the Cape of Good Hope, bypassing the Suez Canal, which could potentially impact Suez Canal revenues. <o:p></o:p>

Egypt's Finance Minister Mohamed Maait acknowledged the potential impact but expressed confidence in the region's resilience.<o:p></o:p>

Georgieva also highlighted the potential economic benefits of phasing out energy subsidies in West Asia. <o:p></o:p>

According to an upcoming IMF paper, eliminating these subsidies could result in savings of $336 billion, equivalent to the economies of Iraq and Libya combined. <o:p></o:p>

Georgieva underscored the importance of redirecting these resources towards social spending and addressing environmental concerns.<o:p></o:p>

The IMF's recommendations include the gradual unwinding of energy subsidies in the region, particularly for oil-exporting economies, with targeted support as an alternative. <o:p></o:p>

Additionally, Georgieva stressed the importance of investing in advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive economic growth and ensure competitiveness on a global scale.<o:p></o:p>

Countries in the Middle East, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have significantly ramped up investment in AI as part of broader strategies to diversify their income sources. <o:p></o:p>

However, Georgieva cautioned that countries lacking the necessary infrastructure and skilled workforce to embrace AI technology risk falling behind in the global economic landscape.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Reuters)<o:p></o:p>

In a recent address at the Arab Fiscal Forum in Dubai, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva highlighted concerns over the sluggish growth of West Asia economies.

In a recent address at the Arab Fiscal Forum in Dubai, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva highlighted concerns over the sluggish growth of West Asia economies. According to Reuters, Georgieva pointed to factors such as oil production cuts and the Israel-Gaza conflict as major contributors to the region's economic challenges. Georgieva emphasised the resilience of the global economy amidst uncertainties but cautioned about the potential wider impact on regional economies due to continued conflict in Gaza. She stated, "Despite uncertainties, the global economy has been surprisingly resilient," underscoring the need for vigilance amid ongoing conflicts. The IMF's regional economic report for the West Asia and North Africa last month downgraded GDP growth forecasts to 2.9 per cent for the year, citing short-term oil production cuts and the conflict in Gaza as significant factors. This revision lagged below previous projections made in October, reflecting persistent challenges faced by economies in the region. Georgieva highlighted the adverse effects of the Israel-Gaza conflict on tourism revenues in neighbouring economies and the impact of Red Sea attacks on global freight costs. These challenges further exacerbate the recovery process for economies already grappling with previous shocks, she noted. The ongoing conflict in the region, particularly the attacks by Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen targeting commercial vessels in the Red Sea, has disrupted global trade routes. Several major shippers have opted to divert traffic to the Cape of Good Hope, bypassing the Suez Canal, which could potentially impact Suez Canal revenues. Egypt's Finance Minister Mohamed Maait acknowledged the potential impact but expressed confidence in the region's resilience. Georgieva also highlighted the potential economic benefits of phasing out energy subsidies in West Asia. According to an upcoming IMF paper, eliminating these subsidies could result in savings of $336 billion, equivalent to the economies of Iraq and Libya combined. Georgieva underscored the importance of redirecting these resources towards social spending and addressing environmental concerns. The IMF's recommendations include the gradual unwinding of energy subsidies in the region, particularly for oil-exporting economies, with targeted support as an alternative. Additionally, Georgieva stressed the importance of investing in advanced technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to drive economic growth and ensure competitiveness on a global scale. Countries in the Middle East, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have significantly ramped up investment in AI as part of broader strategies to diversify their income sources. However, Georgieva cautioned that countries lacking the necessary infrastructure and skilled workforce to embrace AI technology risk falling behind in the global economic landscape. (With inputs from Reuters)

IMF warns of slower growth in West Asia in 2024 citing oil cuts, regional tensions

The war ridden region of West Asia contends with a combination of oil production cuts and the lingering impact of the Israel Gaza War. Managing director of the International Monetary Fund issued warnings about the regions growth prospects emphasizing the need for reform in energy subsidies. Watch to know more!

IMF warns of impact on regional growth from Gaza conflict

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi on Wednesday criticised the deployment of US troops in the Middle East, saying it “disrupts security”. Watch in the report for more details!

US' presence disrupts the security of West Asia, says Iran's Raisi

The naval forces of China Russia and Iran will be holding Marine security joint exercises later this year. This comes amid rising tensions in the West Asia region where Iranian backed Houthi militias and US forces are engaged in major counter strikes. According to Iran's Navy Commander the drills will be held before March end and will be aimed at Regional security. Iran has also invited other countries to take part in the exercise but did not state where the drills will be taking place. Watch to know more!

China, Russia & Iran to hold joint Navy drills aimed at regional security

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.

US plans more retaliation while trying to avert wider war

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

The US is actively pursuing a second hostage deal as well as humanitarian assistance to Gaza. In the latest US Secy State Antony Blinken held a telephonic conversation with the Saudi counterpart about the Israel-Hamas war. Watch to know more!

Israel-Hamas war: Blinken heads on New West Asia trip to push for hostage deal

US retaliates after deadly drone attack on Jordan base. 'US military forces struck targets in Iraq & Syria,' says US President Joe Biden. Baghdad has condemned the US strikes. Watch to know more!

US retaliates after deadly attack on Jordan base, strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq & Syria

US: Antony Blinken to press hostage release deal on New West Asia trip

US strikes Iran-backed targets in Iraq & Syria

In the latest,&nbsp;India's groundbreaking Unified Payments Interface (UPI) made its global debut with&nbsp;a formal launch at the renowned Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. In other news, tensions persist in West Asia as the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates across the region. Following the alleged killing of three US troops at an American base in Jordan by a group associated with Iran, the situation remains volatile. Additionally,&nbsp;Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is undertaking its most extensive recall in the United States, involving nearly all electric vehicles sold in the country.

Click on the headlines to read more.

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West Asia continues to be on edge as the war between Israel and Hamas continues to expand in the region. After three US troops were killed at an American base in Jordan allegedly by a group linked to Iran, President Joe Biden has vowed to retaliate but his administration has fallen short of declaring a full-fledged war.

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India's revolutionary Unified Payments Interface (UPI) marked its global debut as it was formally launched at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. The momentous occasion, organised by the Indian Embassy in France, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of taking UPI to the global stage.

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Indian Navy foiled another piracy attempt along the eastern coast of Somalia. This time, New Delhi's naval forces ensured the safe release of 11 Iranian and 8 Pakistani crew aboard the Iranian-flagged vessel FV Omari that had been boarded by seven pirates who took the crew hostage, Indian Navy said in a statement on social media.&nbsp;

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Mark Zuckerberg, the Chief Executive Officer of Meta Platforms Inc, the parent company overseeing social media giants Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is poised to receive an annual dividend of $700 million. The announcement follows Meta's disclosure on Thursday that it would issue its first-ever quarterly dividend to investors, in a significant development since Facebook's Initial Public Offering in 2012.

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Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is undertaking its most extensive recall in the United States, involving nearly all electric vehicles sold in the country.

The recall is prompted by concerns related to warning lights, posing potential safety risks due to difficulties in reading critical information on the instrument panel, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

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At least three&nbsp;people were killed and more than 270&nbsp;were&nbsp;injured in a massive fire started by a gas explosion&nbsp;in Kenya's capital Nairobi.

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Chinese billionaire banker Bao Fan, who had been missing for nearly a year, has officially resigned from all positions at China Renaissance Holdings, a financial advisory firm he founded in 2005. Health reasons and a desire to focus on family matters were cited as&nbsp;reasons by the bank for Bao Fan's resignation in its statement,&nbsp;reported BBC.

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Two British teenagers, Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe, received life sentences on Friday (Feb 2)&nbsp;for the shocking knife murder of a 16-year-old transgender girl, Brianna Ghey, in Warrington, northwest England, in 2023. Judge Amanda Yip mandated a minimum of 22 years for Jenkinson and 20 years for Ratcliffe in their respective sentences.

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In a shocking development, three teenage girls lost their lives whilst they were undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone.

According to the reports, police have launched an inquiry into the incident.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-gunshots-at-pro-khalistan-nijjar-associate-simranjeet-singhs-house-686278">Canada: Gunshots fired at pro-Khalistan Nijjar associate Simranjeet Singh's house</a>

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Multiple gunshots were fired at pro-Khalistan Simranjeet Singh's residence in Surrey, Canada. He is an associate of now-dead pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Updates in Canadian media say that the firing took place in the early hours of Thursday (February 1) and that the house indeed belongs to Simranjeet Singh.

In the latest, India's groundbreaking Unified Payments Interface (UPI) made its global debut with a formal launch at the renowned Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. In other news, tensions persist in West Asia as the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates across the region.

In the latest, India's groundbreaking Unified Payments Interface (UPI) made its global debut with a formal launch at the renowned Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. In other news, tensions persist in West Asia as the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalates across the region. Following the alleged killing of three US troops at an American base in Jordan by a group associated with Iran, the situation remains volatile. Additionally, Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is undertaking its most extensive recall in the United States, involving nearly all electric vehicles sold in the country. Click on the headlines to read more. Middle East crisis: Iran vows 'strong response to bullies' as Gaza war keeps region on edge West Asia continues to be on edge as the war between Israel and Hamas continues to expand in the region. After three US troops were killed at an American base in Jordan allegedly by a group linked to Iran, President Joe Biden has vowed to retaliate but his administration has fallen short of declaring a full-fledged war. India's UPI makes global debut, officially launched at iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris India's revolutionary Unified Payments Interface (UPI) marked its global debut as it was formally launched at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. The momentous occasion, organised by the Indian Embassy in France, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of taking UPI to the global stage. Indian Navy rescues Pakistani, Iranian crew members along east coast of Somalia Indian Navy foiled another piracy attempt along the eastern coast of Somalia. This time, New Delhi's naval forces ensured the safe release of 11 Iranian and 8 Pakistani crew aboard the Iranian-flagged vessel FV Omari that had been boarded by seven pirates who took the crew hostage, Indian Navy said in a statement on social media. Zuckerberg to get $700mn in Meta dividends day after apologising to parents over children safety Mark Zuckerberg, the Chief Executive Officer of Meta Platforms Inc, the parent company overseeing social media giants Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, is poised to receive an annual dividend of $700 million. The announcement follows Meta's disclosure on Thursday that it would issue its first-ever quarterly dividend to investors, in a significant development since Facebook's Initial Public Offering in 2012. Tesla's largest recall yet: Millions of vehicles called back due to safety concerns Tesla, the electric vehicle giant, is undertaking its most extensive recall in the United States, involving nearly all electric vehicles sold in the country. The recall is prompted by concerns related to warning lights, posing potential safety risks due to difficulties in reading critical information on the instrument panel, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. People flee as gas explosion fire in Kenya kills two, injures over 200 At least three people were killed and more than 270 were injured in a massive fire started by a gas explosion in Kenya's capital Nairobi. China: Banker Bao Fan, missing for a year, officially resigns from all roles at China Renaissance Holdings Chinese billionaire banker Bao Fan, who had been missing for nearly a year, has officially resigned from all positions at China Renaissance Holdings, a financial advisory firm he founded in 2005. Health reasons and a desire to focus on family matters were cited as reasons by the bank for Bao Fan's resignation in its statement, reported BBC. UK teens sentenced to life in 'frenzied, ferocious' knife killing of transgender girl Two British teenagers, Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe, received life sentences on Friday (Feb 2) for the shocking knife murder of a 16-year-old transgender girl, Brianna Ghey, in Warrington, northwest England, in 2023. Judge Amanda Yip mandated a minimum of 22 years for Jenkinson and 20 years for Ratcliffe in their respective sentences. What is Female Genital Mutilation, regressive practice that killed young girls in Sierra Leone? In a shocking development, three teenage girls lost their lives whilst they were undergoing female genital mutilation (FGM) in Sierra Leone. According to the reports, police have launched an inquiry into the incident. Canada: Gunshots fired at pro-Khalistan Nijjar associate Simranjeet Singh's house Multiple gunshots were fired at pro-Khalistan Simranjeet Singh's residence in Surrey, Canada. He is an associate of now-dead pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Updates in Canadian media say that the firing took place in the early hours of Thursday (February 1) and that the house indeed belongs to Simranjeet Singh.

Top 10 world news: UPI launched in France, Tesla's biggest vehicle recall, and more

Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington.&nbsp;

He also said that threats coming from the United States will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US.&nbsp;

"We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/middle-east-iran-us-direct-war-kataib-hezbollah-iraq-tensions-gaza-war-685333">Iran remains on high alert even as Kataib Hezbollah suspends military operations</a>&nbsp;

His remarks came after US President Joe Biden's comments the day before, in which he stated&nbsp;that he had decided on a response to a drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran.&nbsp;

According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution."&nbsp;

"Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added.

US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had also said on Monday that the nation would take "all necessary actions" to defend its troops.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/israel-hamas-war-in-gaza-collective-punishment-is-becoming-routine-685313">Israel-Hamas war: In Gaza, collective punishment is becoming routine</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas | Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state?

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<h2>Jordan drone attack</h2>

The US claimed that its soldiers died in a deadly drone attack in Jordan by Iran-backed militants, but Tehran has denied any links to the attack on the US troops and said it was not seeking an "expansion" of conflict in the Middle East.

In the past few weeks, regional tensions have intensified in the West Asian region, especially since the Israel-Hamas war. It has also drawn in Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen.

The Islamic Republic has previously said it sees a "duty" to support what it calls "resistance groups" in the region but insists they are "independent" in decision and action.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. 

(With inputs from agencies)

Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington.

Hossein Salami, the chief commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said on Wednesday (Jan 31), that Tehran is not afraid of direct military confrontation with Washington. He also said that threats coming from the United States will not be left unanswered, further adding that Iran is not seeking war with the US. "We hear some threats from American officials about targeting Iran. We tell them that you tested us and we know each other. We do not leave any threat unanswered, and we do not look for war, but we are not afraid of it. This is the well-known truth," he said. Also read: Iran remains on high alert even as Kataib Hezbollah suspends military operations His remarks came after US President Joe Biden's comments the day before, in which he stated that he had decided on a response to a drone attack that killed three US service members in Jordan. But even the Biden administration had stressed that it was not seeking a war with Iran. According to the official IRNA news agency, Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said, "America must stop using the language of threat and projection and focus on a political solution." "Iran's response to threats is decisive and immediate," he added. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin had also said on Monday that the nation would take "all necessary actions" to defend its troops. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: In Gaza, collective punishment is becoming routine Watch: Gravitas | Will the UK recognise the Palestinian state? × Jordan drone attack The US claimed that its soldiers died in a deadly drone attack in Jordan by Iran-backed militants, but Tehran has denied any links to the attack on the US troops and said it was not seeking an "expansion" of conflict in the Middle East. In the past few weeks, regional tensions have intensified in the West Asian region, especially since the Israel-Hamas war. It has also drawn in Iran-backed groups in Syria, Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen. The Islamic Republic has previously said it sees a "duty" to support what it calls "resistance groups" in the region but insists they are "independent" in decision and action. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. (With inputs from agencies)

Middle East Crisis: Iran's military chief says not afraid of war with US

A wave of consumer boycotts has swept across West Asia, targeting major western brands like Starbucks, McDonald's, Coca-Cola, and Pepsi. Fueled by anger against perceived US and European bias towards Israel, young consumers, particularly in countries like Jordan, Egypt, and Kuwait, are shunning these brands.

Rise of regional brands in West Asia

Three US service members were killed and dozens may be wounded after an unmanned aerial drone attack on US forces stationed in north-eastern Jordan near the Syrian border. US President Joe Biden blamed Iran-backed groups for the attack. Watch to know more!

West Asia Crisis: Three US soldiers killed, 34 injured in drone attack in Jordan

Iran on Sunday (Jan 28)&nbsp;announced the successful launch of three satellites into space by utilising a rocket with a history of multiple failures.

The satellite launch, part of a programme criticised by the West for its perceived impact on Tehran's ballistic missile capabilities, coincides with heightened tensions in West Asia amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-says-us-had-warned-iran-of-attack-before-is-twin-bombings-683696">Report says US had warned Iran of attack before Islamic State twin bombings</a>

While Iran has not directly entered the conflict, mounting pressure within the country follows a recent Islamic State suicide bombing and actions by proxy groups such as Yemen's Houthi rebels.

Also watch |&nbsp;Iran successfully launches Sorayya satellite in orbit

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Concurrently, the collective Western nations express concerns over Iran's expanding nuclear programme.

Footage released by Iranian state television displayed the nighttime launch of the Simorgh rocket at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan province, 319 km east of Tehran.

State TV identified the launched satellites as Mahda, Kayhan-2, and Hatef-1, serving various research and communication purposes.

Despite previous setbacks, including five consecutive failed launches, the Simorgh programme continues.

<h2>Iran's space programme</h2>

Under former President Hassan Rouhani, Iran's space programme slowed, but with the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal and rising tensions, President Ebrahim Raisi has accelerated efforts. While uranium enrichment is at unprecedented levels, intelligence agencies suggest no active pursuit of nuclear weapons.

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

The US intelligence community's 2023 worldwide threat assessment said that the development of satellite launch vehicles "shortens the timeline" for Iran to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile.

The US has criticised Iran's satellite launches, citing defiance of a UN Security Council resolution. The 2023 worldwide threat assessment underscores the potential dual-use nature of Iran's satellite launch vehicles, warning of implications for intercontinental ballistic missile development.

France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have also joined the US in condemning&nbsp;Iran's recent satellite launch.

Tehran, which maintains the largest ballistic missile arsenal in West Asia, faces scrutiny due to the supply of such missiles to Yemen's Houthi rebels. The Houthis, in turn, have utilised these Iran-supplied missiles to strike merchant ships in the Red Sea in their purported support for Palestinians in Gaza amid Israel-Hamas war. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Iran on Sunday (Jan 28) announced the successful launch of three satellites into space by utilising a rocket with a history of multiple failures. The satellite launch, part of a programme criticised by the West for its perceived impact on Tehran's ballistic missile capabilities, coincides with heightened tensions in West Asia amid the Israel-Hamas war.

Iran on Sunday (Jan 28) announced the successful launch of three satellites into space by utilising a rocket with a history of multiple failures. The satellite launch, part of a programme criticised by the West for its perceived impact on Tehran's ballistic missile capabilities, coincides with heightened tensions in West Asia amid the Israel-Hamas war. Also read | Report says US had warned Iran of attack before Islamic State twin bombings While Iran has not directly entered the conflict, mounting pressure within the country follows a recent Islamic State suicide bombing and actions by proxy groups such as Yemen's Houthi rebels. Also watch | Iran successfully launches Sorayya satellite in orbit × Concurrently, the collective Western nations express concerns over Iran's expanding nuclear programme. Footage released by Iranian state television displayed the nighttime launch of the Simorgh rocket at the Imam Khomeini Spaceport in Semnan province, 319 km east of Tehran. State TV identified the launched satellites as Mahda, Kayhan-2, and Hatef-1, serving various research and communication purposes. Despite previous setbacks, including five consecutive failed launches, the Simorgh programme continues. Iran's space programme Under former President Hassan Rouhani, Iran's space programme slowed, but with the collapse of the 2015 nuclear deal and rising tensions, President Ebrahim Raisi has accelerated efforts. While uranium enrichment is at unprecedented levels, intelligence agencies suggest no active pursuit of nuclear weapons. What does it mean? The US intelligence community's 2023 worldwide threat assessment said that the development of satellite launch vehicles "shortens the timeline" for Iran to develop an intercontinental ballistic missile. The US has criticised Iran's satellite launches, citing defiance of a UN Security Council resolution. The 2023 worldwide threat assessment underscores the potential dual-use nature of Iran's satellite launch vehicles, warning of implications for intercontinental ballistic missile development. France, Germany, and the United Kingdom have also joined the US in condemning Iran's recent satellite launch. Tehran, which maintains the largest ballistic missile arsenal in West Asia, faces scrutiny due to the supply of such missiles to Yemen's Houthi rebels. The Houthis, in turn, have utilised these Iran-supplied missiles to strike merchant ships in the Red Sea in their purported support for Palestinians in Gaza amid Israel-Hamas war. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran launches three satellites into space as tensions grip West Asia

US has carried out fresh strikes on Houthi missiles in Yemen, Iraq sites. As tensions reach a tipping point in West Asia, Washington has reportedly urged China to help curb Red Sea attacks by Iran-backed Houthis. On this episode of Gravitas, we ask, will America lose every war that it has started?

Gravitas: America fighter jets bomb Iran-backed targets in Iraq, Yemen

Dubai is drawing the attention of the rich and prosperous from China...Wealth managers are setting up shop in dubai, riding on the growing diplomatic ties between china and West Asia.

Chinese elite set up wealth management offices in Dubai | World DNA

US continues its diplomatic efforts to soothe escalating tensions in West Asia. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has embarked on his fourth crisis visit to the region. While US diplomatic envoy Amos Hochstein has met with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken make multiple stops during fresh West Asia visit

Missiles struck US controlled Al Asad base in Iraq. Missiles struck US controlled Al Asad base in IraqMissiles reportedly launched by Iranian proxies from within Iraq. Most missiles intercepted, no major injuries reported from strike. Watch to know more!

US-controlled Iraqi base struck by missiles | West Asia Conflict

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