Top Iran commander Soleimani killed in US strike on Baghdad; Iran issues arrest warrant for Trump

[IAJ]

He is believed to be the second most powerful man in Iran. Dangerous times ahead in Middle East now.


=====

General Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' elite Quds Force, has been killed by US forces in Iraq.

The Pentagon confirmed he was killed "at the direction of the president".

Gen Soleimani was being driven by car at Baghdad airport, alongside local Iran-backed militias, when he was hit by a US air strike.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said "severe revenge awaits the criminals" behind the attack.

He also announced three days of mourning.

Gen Soleimani was a major figure in the Iranian regime. His Quds Force reported directly to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and he was hailed as a heroic national figure.

But the US has called the commander and the Quds Force terrorists, and holds them responsible for the deaths of hundreds of US personnel.

US President Donald Trump tweeted an image of the American flag after the news broke.

Global oil prices meanwhile soared more than 4% in the wake of the strike.

What happened?
US media reports say Gen Soleimani and officials from Iran-backed militias were leaving Baghdad airport in two cars when they were hit by a US drone strike near a cargo area.

The commander had reportedly flown in from Lebanon or Syria. Several missiles reportedly struck the convoy, and at least five people are thought to have died.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis was among those killed.

A Pentagon statement said: "At the direction of the President, the US military has taken decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani."

It added: "This strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans. The United States will continue to take all necessary action to protect our people and our interests wherever they are around the world."

The drone strike comes days after protesters attacked the US embassy in Baghdad, clashing with US forces at the scene. The Pentagon said Gen Soleimani approved the attacks on the embassy.

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-50979463

 

[Pakistanian]

World War 3 and the Draft is trending on social media, this is some serious escalation
.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/VXeKiVzpTf">pic.twitter.com/VXeKiVzpTf</a></p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1212924762827046918?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[offstump]

This is a major escalation of unprecedented proportions; akin to the US taking out Bajwa or Hameed. Conversely, it would be like a foreign country taking out General Petraeous. Suleimani was basically in charge of all Iranin affairs and deemed virtually untouchable by the Obama administration who were smart enough not to go this far.

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The US' act of international terrorism, targeting & assassinating General Soleimani—THE most effective force fighting Daesh (ISIS), Al Nusrah, Al Qaeda et al—is extremely dangerous & a foolish escalation.<br><br>The US bears responsibility for all consequences of its rogue adventurism.</p>— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1212946202280579073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Down2Earth]

If this isn't a declaration of war from America then I don't know what is

 

[Waseem]

This is extremely dangerous and something that could trigger a war.

I can't believe how openly Americans have declared war on Iran, no matter how evil this person was but why would you set such a trend where any world leader could be assassinated like this because you disagree with their policies. Trump is known as a nutcase even in his own country so that gives anyone right to assassinate him then?

The whole world is likely to suffer from this war (sincerely hope it doesn't start) and of course from Pakistan's perspective, trouble on the borders and substantial increase in oil prices will cause massive damage as inflation will further increase

 

[Ronaldo7]

iirc, this guy was threatening Pakistan not so long ago. He's dead now so that's good for Pakistan's safety but not sure how good that is for the world's safety

 

[IAJ]

iirc, this guy was threatening Pakistan not so long ago. He's dead now so that's good for Pakistan's safety but not sure how good that is for the world's safety

Well Pakistan are also part of this World so there is contradiction in your post.

 

[Ronaldo7]

Well Pakistan are also part of this World so there is contradiction in your post.

Yeah but I doubt nukes will start flying around so don't think it'll affect us too much.

 

[Hermoine Green]

Just saw twitter and i was wondering why the hell WW3 is trending, and now i got it.

 

[AdamM97]

This guy...

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">In order to get elected, <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BarackObama</a> will start a war with Iran.</p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/141604554855825408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2011</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Pakistanian]

Soleimani like Saddam was a terrible person, they both have the blood of tens of thousands of people on their hands however both of their murders was a huge mistake.

 

[marlonbrowndo]

So many Americans are just privileged, dumb and so out of touch with reality

 

[Pakistanian]

So many Americans are just privileged, dumb and so out of touch with reality

Don't generalize Americans, you literally live in North America. Most people don't want war, Trump has his own agenda.

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">In the Name of God, the Beneficent, the Merciful</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1212986012814712832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Dear Iranian Nation!<br>Years of sincere, brave efforts fighting against the devils& villainous in the world & yrs of wishing for martyrdom on the path of God finally took the dear Commander of Islam, Soleimani, to this lofty status. His blood was shed by the most barbaric of men./1</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1212989051093028864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We congratulate Imam Mahdi (‘a.j.) & Soleimani’s pure soul& condole the Iranian nation on this great martyrdom. He was an eminent example of a person trained in Islam. He spent all his life in struggling for God. Martyrdom was the reward for his tireless efforts over the years./2</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1212991721954578432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">His efforts & path won’t be stopped by his martyrdom, by God’s Power, rather a <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SevereRevenge?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SevereRevenge</a> awaits the criminals who have stained their hands with his & the other martyrs’ blood last night. Martyr Soleimani is an Intl figure of Resistance & all such people will seek revenge. /3</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1212995728395636736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">All friends—& enemies—know that Jihad of Resistance will continue with more motivation & definite victory awaits the fighters on this blessed path. The loss of our dear General is bitter. The continuing fight & ultimate victory will be more bitter for the murderers & criminals./4</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1212998634264027136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Iranian nation will honor the memory of the noble Major-General Soleimani & the martyrs with him—particularly the great Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis— & I declare 3 days of mourning across the nation. I condole & congratulate his family. /5<br>Sayyed Ali Khamenei <br>Jan 3, 2020</p>— Khamenei.ir (@khamenei_ir) <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir/status/1213003287768772608?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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[Ryw]

Next to Iran's Supreme Leader, Qasem Soleimani was arguably the most powerful figure in the Islamic republic.

As head of its military abroad known as the Quds Force, Soleimani was the mastermind behind the country's activities across in the Middle East, and its real foreign minister when it came to matters of war and peace.

He was widely considered an architect of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's war against rebels in Syria, the rise of pro-Iranian paramilitaries in Iraq, the fight against the Islamic State group, and many battles beyond.

Charismatic and often elusive, the silver-haired commander was revered by some, loathed by others, and a source of myths and social media memes.

US-Iran relations: A brief history
Profile: Iran's Revolutionary Guards

He had emerged in recent years from a lifetime in the shadows directing covert operations to achieve fame and popularity in Iran, becoming the subject of documentaries, news reports and even pop songs.

As far back as 2013, former CIA officer John Maguire told The New Yorker that Soleimani was "the single most powerful operative in the Middle East".

When his end came, it was violent and sudden. On 3 January the Pentagon announced that it had carried out a successful operation to kill him, at the direction of US President Donald Trump.

The assassination followed a sharp escalation between the US, Iran and Iran-backed groups in Iraq following the death of a US military contractor in a missile attack on a US base in Iraq - for which the US held Iran responsible.

The US responded with an air strike on the Iran-backed militia Kataib Hezbollah. Militia supporters then attacked the US embassy in Baghdad.

Tensions between the US and Iran had been rising since the US pulled out of a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers to curb Iran's nuclear programme and prevent it from developing nuclear weapons. The US has also reimposed sanctions on Iran, sending its economy into freefall.
Rise of militias

Soleimani is believed to have come from a poor background and to have had very little formal education. But he had risen through the Revolutionary Guards - Iran's elite and most powerful force - and was reportedly close to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khomeini.

After becoming commander of the Quds Force in 1998, Soleimani attempted to extend Iran's influence in the Middle East by carrying out covert operations, providing arms to allies and developing networks of militias loyal to Iran.
Over the course of his career he is believed to have aided Shia Muslim and Kurdish groups in Iraq fighting against former dictator Saddam Hussein as well as other groups in the region including the Shia militant group Hezbollah in Lebanon and Islamist organisation Hamas in the Palestinian territories.

After the US invaded Iraq in 2003 he began directing militant groups to carry out attacks against US troops and bases, killing hundreds.

He is also widely credited with finding a strategy for Bashar al-Assad to respond to the armed uprising against him that began in 2011. Iranian assistance along with Russian air support helped turn the tide against rebel forces and in the Syrian government's favour, allowing it to recapture key cities and towns.

Soleimani himself was sometimes pictured as funerals of Iranians killed Syria and Iraq, where Iran had deployed thousands of combatants and military advisers

In April 2019, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo designated Iran's Revolutionary Guards and Quds Force as foreign terrorist organisations.

The Trump administration has said the Quds Force provided funding, training, weapons and equipment to US-designated terrorist groups in the Middle East - including Hezbollah movement and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group based in Gaza.

In a statement, the Pentagon said Soleimani had been "actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region".

"General Soleimani and his Quds Force were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American and coalition service members and the wounding of thousands more," it added.

Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-50980093

 

[Vegitto1]

Soleimani like Saddam was a terrible person, they both have the blood of tens of thousands of people on their hands however both of their murders was a huge mistake.

Brainwashed as anything. American army and its allies have killed countless civilians in the Middle East and arounf the World. Should we just bomb them at the next opportunity we get?

Nor Saddam and nor Soleimani is as terrible as the rulers in the West. Only difference is that they control the media and the narrative.

 

[Pakistanian]

Brainwashed as anything. American army and its allies have killed countless civilians in the Middle East and arounf the World. Should we just bomb them at the next opportunity we get?

Nor Saddam and nor Soleimani is as terrible as the rulers in the West. Only difference is that they control the media and the narrative.

Idk if you can read but I clearly said that murdering both of them was a huge mistake. Right now Shias on social media are eulogizing Soleimani even though he butched thousands of sunnis in syria and iraq likewise Sunni extremists think of Saddam as some hero even though he committed shia genocide - my point is both of them are the same and Shias and Sunnis alike should condemn both of these tyrants that said neither of them should have been killed as that will lead to a wider war that will affect millions in the region.

 

[big_gamer007]

This is serious, Trump is a nutcase, the guy is ruining the entire world.

 

[Robert]

I don’t understand what Trump is trying to do here, executing an Iranian General on third party soil. It seems like really dumb pointless escalation.

 

[Hitman]

Blame the American public for bringing a nutcase to power.

 

[Bewal Express]

I don’t understand what Trump is trying to do here, executing an Iranian General on third party soil. It seems like really dumb pointless escalation.

It's to curry favour with the neo cons after the humiliation of the impeachment.

 

[Hornbill]

This is the definition of surgical strike @modibhakts

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Iran never won a war, but never lost a negotiation!</p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213078681750573056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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[shah_1]

What exactly Iran can do?

They can't be part of conventional war so it might be a proxy attack

 

[uberkoen]

Assassinations lead to world wars. Wish the powers that be learnt from history.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Blame the American public for bringing a nutcase to power.

I guess they figure they are far enough away not to feel in any danger, so the American public will probably just shrug their shoulders and say meh.

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> has viewed with deep concern the recent developments in the Middle East, which seriously threaten peace and stability in the region. <br><br>Respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity are the fundamental principles of the UN Charter, which should be adhered to.<br><br>1/2</p>— Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1213071481086840832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">It is also important to avoid unilateral actions and use of force.<br> <br>All parties are urged to exercise maximum restraint, engage constructively to de-escalate the situation, and resolve issues through diplomatic means, in accordance with UN Charter and international law.<br><br>2/2</p>— Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pakistan (@ForeignOfficePk) <a href="https://twitter.com/ForeignOfficePk/status/1213071483456643073?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Ronaldo7]

The only people condemning this are the Pakistan Shia's who make up only 10% of the population.
Iran was threatening Pakistan not so long ago so how can you expect us to support them and top of that expect us to go against KSA?

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

The only people condemning this are the Pakistan Shia's who make up only 10% of the population.
Iran was threatening Pakistan not so long ago so how can you expect us to support them and top of that expect us to go against KSA?

You don't have to support Iran to condemn a senseless act of aggression.

 

[Ronaldo7]

You don't have to support Iran to condemn a senseless act of aggression.

You shouldn't condemn the killing of your enemy either.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

You shouldn't condemn the killing of your enemy either.

I think any act which potentially leads to an escalation of war needs condeming. I can't see Iran taking this lying down. They might not respond immediately but you would imagine US ships in the gulf might need security beefed up.

 

[Ronaldo7]

You shouldn't condemn the killing of your enemy either.

Also, it's about national interest.
If Pakistan really cared about individual things then we would have condemned China too coz what they're doing to Uighur Muslims but we haven't done that because it's hurt our relations.

 

[Ronaldo7]

I think any act which potentially leads to an escalation of war needs condeming. I can't see Iran taking this lying down. They might not respond immediately but you would imagine US ships in the gulf might need security beefed up.

What can Iran realistically do?
They don't have it in them right now. They might activate their sleeper cells or they might try to attack Israel through Hezbollah but they can't do anything too big.

 

[AdamM97]

The only people condemning this are the Pakistan Shia's who make up only 10% of the population.
Iran was threatening Pakistan not so long ago so how can you expect us to support them and top of that expect us to go against KSA?

Do you really want another neighbouring nation to be a warzone? Is Afghanistan not enough? This will have serious reprecussions for Pakistan.

It is in Pakistan’s interest that Iran isn’t embroiled in a war on its own soil.

 

[Ronaldo7]

Do you really want another neighbouring nation to be a warzone? Is Afghanistan not enough? This will have serious reprecussions for Pakistan.

It is in Pakistan’s interest that Iran isn’t embroiled in a war on its own soil.

Who wants a war?
Pakistan has just released a statement saying that they want peace in the region. But that doesn't mean we start condemning actions which are against our enemies.

 

[AdamM97]

[MENTION=149383]Ronaldo7[/MENTION]

And don’t you think the killing of Soleimani will
lead to a war? American neocons have been pushing for war with Iran since forever. Even the slightest of response from Iran or Hezbollah can lead to greater escalation. And be sure, Iran will use covert action and respond to the US.

I don’t care that what he has said about Pakistan in the past, that doesn’t matter at this point. His killing can/ and probably will lead to something that’s not in Pakistan’s interest, so yes, we should condemn the killing.

We don’t have to mourn for Soleimani, but we should condemn the actions taken by the US.

 

[AdamM97]

[MENTION=149383]Ronaldo7[/MENTION]

And don’t you think the killing of Soleimani will
lead to a war? American neocons have been pushing for war with Iran since forever. Even the slightest of response from Iran or Hezbollah can lead to greater escalation. And be sure, Iran will use covert action and respond to the US.

I don’t care that what he has said about Pakistan in the past, that doesn’t matter at this point. His killing can/ and probably will lead to something that’s not in Pakistan’s interest, so yes, we should condemn the killing.

We don’t have to mourn for Soleimani, but we should condemn the actions taken by the US.

Any action that can negatively affect Pakistan is worth condemning in my opinion.

 

[Ronaldo7]

[MENTION=149383]Ronaldo7[/MENTION]

And don’t you think the killing of Soleimani will
lead to a war? American neocons have been pushing for war with Iran since forever. Even the slightest of response from Iran or Hezbollah can lead to greater escalation. And be sure, Iran will use covert action and respond to the US.

I don’t care that what he has said about Pakistan in the past, that doesn’t matter at this point. His killing can/ and probably will lead to something that’s not in Pakistan’s interest, so yes, we should condemn the killing.

We don’t have to mourn for Soleimani, but we should condemn the actions taken by the US.

I'm not sure if a war will take place or not.
No one really expected the US to take this kind of action this soon I'm sure Iran would have been surprised too.
It definitely wasn't ideal but it is what it is.
If this can lead to peace in the region then I'm fine with a war. I don't want a war to take place let me just clarify

 

[Markhor]

Wonder where those arguing that Trump is an anti-interventionist are at. Amongst many broken promises, he claimed (and some folks on the far-left foolishly believed) he would withdraw US troops from Middle Eastern conflicts. This action will only draw US further into the regional quagmire, which is exactly what the defence profiteers wanted.

This Sulemani may have blood on his hands from the myriad of sectarian proxy wars in the Middle East, but what gave Trump the right to execute a foreign general and become judge, jury and executioner ?

 

[Zaz]

I'm not sure if a war will take place or not.
No one really expected the US to take this kind of action this soon I'm sure Iran would have been surprised too.
It definitely wasn't ideal but it is what it is.
If this can lead to peace in the region then I'm fine with a war. I don't want a war to take place let me just clarify

Errr how can war lead to peace in the region?

 

[Ronaldo7]

Errr how can war lead to peace in the region?

Like they did for Japan after WW2 and in Germany.

A war can lead to peace if one surrenders and the other takes advantage of it in a positive way

 

[ShahKhan007]

Iranian officials have a tendency to raise a lot of noise but eventually sit back and do nothing. All you have to do is look at their statements towards Palestinian and Israel conflicts yet when Israel attacks Palestinian territories or Hezbollah or bombs Syria they sit back and do nothing. Despite all the rhetoric same thing will happen here.

 

[barah_admi]

Iran has neither the force, nor the will to respond in kind but the proxy wars in Iraq, Syria and Yemen will worsen and the US' lies of wanting peace have been laid bare.

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">General Qassem Soleimani has killed or badly wounded thousands of Americans over an extended period of time, and was plotting to kill many more...but got caught! He was directly and indirectly responsible for the death of millions of people, including the recent large number....</p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213096351296299017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-conversation="none" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">....of PROTESTERS killed in Iran itself. While Iran will never be able to properly admit it, Soleimani was both hated and feared within the country. They are not nearly as saddened as the leaders will let the outside world believe. He should have been taken out many years ago!</p>— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1213096352072294401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[IAJ]

Could Ivanka Trump or her husband have something to do with this?

 

[thelandofthebravepeople]

America has a huge army that they spend huge amount of money on every year. They need to constantly be involved in full scale war. Anything else results in huge losses and sooner rather then later congress will start to cut in budget if the army is not doing anything.

This is sad reality. It's nothing to do with peace. As if the Americans care about muslim lifes.

 

[thelandofthebravepeople]

Could Ivanka Trump or her husband have something to do with this?

This is exactly what the Israelis want. A full scale war with Iran and eliminating a powerful muslim country.

 

[WhenSultansBowled]

The whole world is against it.

Isn't it an act of terrorism, attacking an airport?

Trump should have never been elected. This fat piece of mass will only bring further misery and war.

Bad news for Pakistan. We've already suffered the Afghanistan war

This time, if Americans decide to bring peace and democracy to Iran, I don't thing any of the EU countries will support it. Only Israel and USA benefit from this upcoming war.

 

[HasanA]

where are the folks who said Trump will be good for the world?

 

[WhenSultansBowled]

America has a huge army that they spend huge amount of money on every year. They need to constantly be involved in full scale war. Anything else results in huge losses and sooner rather then later congress will start to cut in budget if the army is not doing anything.

This is sad reality. It's nothing to do with peace. As if the Americans care about muslim lifes.

The American weapons manufacturers do want a constant war.

This war will be extremely bloody. Contrary to Afghans/Iraqis the Iranian youth will die to defend their homeland, even with sticks and stones.

PS: where are the people who defend Israel/Jews? This could be potentially the WWIII... I hope they enlist and fight in the middle of Tehran!!

 

[AdamM97]

I'm not sure if a war will take place or not.
No one really expected the US to take this kind of action this soon I'm sure Iran would have been surprised too.
It definitely wasn't ideal but it is what it is.
If this can lead to peace in the region then I'm fine with a war. I don't want a war to take place let me just clarify

We were told that elliminating Saddam would lead to peace in the middle east. Instead, the killing of Saddam contributed to the rise of ISIS.

 

[IMMY69]

We were told that elliminating Saddam would lead to peace in the middle east. Instead, the killing of Saddam contributed to the rise of ISIS.

Aren't ISIS an asset for the States just as the Taliban used to be?

Funny how ISIS never wanted to take down Isreal and were more interested in taking out Shia's and Shiite regimes such as Syria, Iran and Iraq (which is Shia Majority).

 

[Syed1]

The only people condemning this are the Pakistan Shia's who make up only 10% of the population.
Iran was threatening Pakistan not so long ago so how can you expect us to support them and top of that expect us to go against KSA?

The foreign office of Pakistan has condemned it so how did you come with your generalized statement?

 

[Ronaldo7]

The foreign office of Pakistan has condemned it so how did you come with your generalized statement?

The foreign office isn't crying or mourning over his death are they?

But a lot of Shias are.

 

[dildilpak]

Well, one could argue the implication of killing such a high profile target, my take on it is that Iran isn’t exactly blameless in the whole affair - attacking US allies (Saudi oil fields), helping the Yemen rebels, propping up Assad & helping Turkey kill the kurds, killing the American contractor & probably the last straw was attacking the US embassy in Iraq - Trump had to act after the last attack to prove this wasn’t another Benghazi.

 

[IMMY69]

The foreign office isn't crying or mourning over his death are they?

But a lot of Shias are.

Today its the sunni's who are run by the Americans and thats fine I suppose if you are a sunni who wants to be run by the Americans.

 

[Robert]

It's to curry favour with the neo cons after the humiliation of the impeachment.

That figures.

 

[ShahKhan007]

Majority of Iranians would love nothing more than to live under a secular regime. Forget about Iranians in the West if you ever been to Dubai and interacted with Iranians men or woman in that city you would know that the Mullahs have very little support inside Iran.

 

[Ronaldo7]

Today its the sunni's who are run by the Americans and thats fine I suppose if you are a sunni who wants to be run by the Americans.

What have shias gotten by acting tough?

Iran just got their general blown up and now they're crying over it.

 

[Zaz]

Like they did for Japan after WW2 and in Germany.

A war can lead to peace if one surrenders and the other takes advantage of it in a positive way

Thats a rubbish example Its hardly a similar situation

This will only lead to more loss of innocent lives around the world and in the middle east and more turmoil in an already trouble region

 

[Abdullah719]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>'s Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about U.S. defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> regime’s actions in the region are destabilizing and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213122193204432896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Majority of Iranians would love nothing more than to live under a secular regime. Forget about Iranians in the West if you ever been to Dubai and interacted with Iranians men or woman in that city you would know that the Mullahs have very little support inside Iran.

I don't think ex-pats are ever going to give you a true reflection of what is going on in a country, they are obviously going to be against the regime, that is why they left. While I'm sure Iranians may well want to live under a secular regime, they don't seem to want it badly enough if the clerics are still calling the shots.

 

[sjahmed23]

World will not go to war for muslims.

 

[CricketCartoons]

A minor event which may only create a ripple on twitter and inspire a netflix episode, but not going to change anything in middle east.

 

[JaDed]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a>'s Chief of Staff General Bajwa and I spoke today about U.S. defensive action to kill Qassem Soleimani. The <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> regime’s actions in the region are destabilizing and our resolve in protecting American interests, personnel, facilities, and partners will not waver.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213122193204432896?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Why did he bring in Bajwa ?

 

[ShahKhan007]

I don't think ex-pats are ever going to give you a true reflection of what is going on in a country, they are obviously going to be against the regime, that is why they left. While I'm sure Iranians may well want to live under a secular regime, they don't seem to want it badly enough if the clerics are still calling the shots.

That's I mentioned Dubai because majority are there either on work visa or to see the city. Also I am able to speak farsi to an extent so I find it easier to have a open conversation with them.

 

[JaDed]

Nothing is gonna happen though.. Iran has no options but clearly America can never be hands off other countries.

 

[Jin Chacha]

Nothing is gonna happen though.. Iran has no options but clearly America can never be hands off other countries.

Iran has few options against the US but it can create a huge mess in the gulf. The drone attacks on Aramco were a small example of what it can do and US allies like Emirates are soft targets. So is oil shipping going through the strait of Hormuz. They can play havoc with the region and the world economy if they really become desperate.

 

[Abdullah719]

Why did he bring in Bajwa ?

Not the only one.

Spoiler

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I spoke today with Chinese Politburo Member Yang Jiechi to discuss <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to eliminate Soleimani in response to imminent threats to American lives. I reiterated our commitment to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213062846021558273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Discussed with <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DominicRaab</a> the recent decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Thankful that our allies recognize the continuing aggressive threats posed by the Iranian Quds Force. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213064731851939841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/HeikoMaas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HeikoMaas</a> about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Germany is also concerned over the Iranian regime’s continued military provocations. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213069501052440584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>'s Jean-Yves Le Drian about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take action to kill Qassem Soleimani. Countering the Iranian regime’s malign activity is a shared priority with our European allies. Our resolve to protect our people & our interests is unwavering.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213116674527903744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshrafGhani</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to kill Qassem Soleimani to protect American lives at stake. The Iranian regime’s actions are a source of instability throughout the region. The U.S. will protect its people and its interests.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213123612569407490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[JaDed]

Not the only one.

Spoiler

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I spoke today with Chinese Politburo Member Yang Jiechi to discuss <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to eliminate Soleimani in response to imminent threats to American lives. I reiterated our commitment to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213062846021558273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Discussed with <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DominicRaab</a> the recent decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Thankful that our allies recognize the continuing aggressive threats posed by the Iranian Quds Force. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213064731851939841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/HeikoMaas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HeikoMaas</a> about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Germany is also concerned over the Iranian regime’s continued military provocations. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213069501052440584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>'s Jean-Yves Le Drian about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take action to kill Qassem Soleimani. Countering the Iranian regime’s malign activity is a shared priority with our European allies. Our resolve to protect our people & our interests is unwavering.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213116674527903744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshrafGhani</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to kill Qassem Soleimani to protect American lives at stake. The Iranian regime’s actions are a source of instability throughout the region. The U.S. will protect its people and its interests.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213123612569407490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Thanks but you know among all above countries only Afghans and Pakistanis can actually have an affect on them..

 

[msaaim89]

Not the only one.

Spoiler

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I spoke today with Chinese Politburo Member Yang Jiechi to discuss <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to eliminate Soleimani in response to imminent threats to American lives. I reiterated our commitment to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213062846021558273?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Discussed with <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DominicRaab</a> the recent decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Thankful that our allies recognize the continuing aggressive threats posed by the Iranian Quds Force. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213064731851939841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/HeikoMaas?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HeikoMaas</a> about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take defensive action to eliminate Qassem Soleimani. Germany is also concerned over the Iranian regime’s continued military provocations. The U.S. remains committed to de-escalation.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213069501052440584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a>'s Jean-Yves Le Drian about <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to take action to kill Qassem Soleimani. Countering the Iranian regime’s malign activity is a shared priority with our European allies. Our resolve to protect our people & our interests is unwavering.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213116674527903744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Spoke with Afghan President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshrafGhani</a> on <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s decision to kill Qassem Soleimani to protect American lives at stake. The Iranian regime’s actions are a source of instability throughout the region. The U.S. will protect its people and its interests.</p>— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1213123612569407490?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This guy Pompeo is a parrot.

 

[IMMY69]

What have shias gotten by acting tough?

Iran just got their general blown up and now they're crying over it.

No one gains from this.. especially the Muslims (Shias or Sunnis)...
However this assassination was unprecedented

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Well, one could argue the implication of killing such a high profile target, my take on it is that Iran isn’t exactly blameless in the whole affair - attacking US allies (Saudi oil fields), helping the Yemen rebels, propping up Assad & helping Turkey kill the kurds, killing the American contractor & probably the last straw was attacking the US embassy in Iraq - Trump had to act after the last attack to prove this wasn’t another Benghazi.

Iran is like most countries today, they want to be a big player in what they consider to be their region.

The difference with the US is the Americans treat the whole world as their region, even if they are on a different hemisphere.

 

[troodon]

LOL@ WW3

Iran is a nobody and can do nothing to US. The Mullahs in Iran can cry and blow hot air all they want. But in a war, they will get crushed.

Who is going to support Iran here to fight US?

***** Crickets*********

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

LOL@ WW3

Iran is a nobody and can do nothing to US. The Mullahs in Iran can cry and blow hot air all they want. But in a war, they will get crushed.

Who is going to support Iran here to fight US?

***** Crickets*********

Not Pakistan for sure. Iran are more friendly with India so can't see Pakistan getting involved.

 

[MenInG]

The killing of Gen Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' Quds force, represents a dramatic escalation in the low-level conflict between the US and Iran and one whose consequences could be considerable.

Retaliation is to be expected. A chain of action and reprisal could ensue bringing the two countries closer to a direct confrontation. Washington's future in Iraq could well be called into question. And President Trump's strategy for the region - if there is one - will be tested like never before.

Philip Gordon, who was White House co-ordinator for the Middle East and the Persian Gulf in the Obama administration, described the killing as little short of a "declaration of war" by the Americans against Iran.

The Quds Force is the branch of Iran's security forces responsible for operations abroad. For years, whether it be in Lebanon, Iraq, Syria or elsewhere, Soleimani has been a key instigator in expanding and extending Iran's influence through planning attacks or bolstering Tehran's local allies.

For Washington, he was a man with US blood on his hands. But he was popular in Iran itself. And in practical terms, he led Tehran's fightback against the broad campaign of pressure and US-imposed sanctions.

What is most surprising is not that Soleimani was in President Trump's sights but quite why the US should strike him now.

A series of low-level rocket attacks against US bases in Iraq were blamed on Tehran. One US civilian contractor was killed. But earlier Iranian operations - against tankers in the Gulf; the shooting down of a US unmanned aerial vehicle; even the major attack against a Saudi oil facility - all went without a direct US response.

As for the rocket attacks against the US bases in Iraq, the Pentagon has already hit back against the pro-Iranian militia believed to be behind them. That prompted a potential assault on the US embassy compound in Baghdad.

In explaining the decision to kill Soleimani, the Pentagon focused not just on his past actions, but also insisted that the strike was meant as a deterrent. The general, the Pentagon statement reads, was "actively developing plans to attack US diplomats and service members in Iraq and throughout the region".

Quite what happens next is the big question. President Trump will hope that in one dramatic action he has both cowed Iran and proven to his increasingly uneasy allies in the region like Israel and Saudi Arabia that US deterrence still has teeth. However it is almost unthinkable that there will not be a robust Iranian response, even if it is not immediate.

The 5,000 US troops in Iraq are an obvious potential target. So too are the sorts of targets hit by Iran or its proxies in the past. Tensions will be higher in the Gulf. No wonder the initial impact was to see a surge in oil prices.

The US and its allies will be looking to their defences. Washington has already despatched a small number of reinforcements to its embassy in Baghdad. It will have plans to increase its military footprint in the region quickly if needed.

But it is equally possible that Iran's response will be in some sense asymmetric - in other words not just a strike for a strike. It may seek to play on the widespread support it has in the region - through the very proxies that Soleimani built up and funded.

It could for example renew the siege on the US embassy in Baghdad, putting the Iraqi government in a difficult position, and call into question the US deployment there. It could prompt demonstrations elsewhere as cover for other attacks.

The strike against the Quds force commander was a clear demonstration of US military intelligence and capabilities. Many in the region will not mourn his passing. But was this the wisest thing for President Trump to do?

How well is the Pentagon prepared for the inevitable aftermath? And just what does this strike tell us about Mr Trump's overall strategy in the region? Has this changed in any way? Is there a new zero-tolerance towards Iranian operations?

Or was this just the president taking out an Iranian commander he would no doubt regard as "a very bad man".

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-50980704

 

[troodon]

Not Pakistan for sure. Iran are more friendly with India so can't see Pakistan getting involved.

India will do nothing. One phone call from Trump is enough to straighten up Modi.

May be North Korea or China can help. North Korea is a poor country and China will not fight other's wars. They will make some empty threats at best.

Iran is a nobody and the Mullah regime should realize it for their own good.

 

[MenInG]

Iraq is poised for a period of uncertainty as top Shia leaders warned of repercussions following the killing of top Iran general Qassem Soleimani by a US air strike in Baghdad on Friday.

Iraqi protesters have also called on Tehran and Washington to take their battle elsewhere after Soleimani, the head of Iran's elite Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' (IRGC) Quds Force and mastermind of its regional influence, was killed along with Iraqi paramilitary commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

"Iraq is bracing for some of the most difficult days," Baghdad-based analyst Jassim Moussavi told Al Jazeera.

"We expect the announcement of war at any moment. If Iran decides to confront the US, Iraq will be the scene for that battle. Several Shia paramilitary forces have started to prepare themselves for ground zero."

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed revenge for the "criminals" that killed Soleimani. Iraq's prominent Shia leader Muqtada al-Sadr called on his militias (Army of Imam Mahdi) and "other national and disciplined" armed groups to be prepared to protect Iraq, adding that the killing of Soleimani will not weaken Iraq's resolve.

Qays al-Khazali, head of Asaib Ahl al-Haq armed faction, which is part of the Hashd al-Shaabi (Popular Mobilisation Forces) in Iraq backed by Iran, said "all fighters should be on high alert for upcoming battle and great victory".

"An end to Israel-US presence in the region will result from the assassination of Soleimani and Muhandis," al-Khazali said in a statement published by Iraqi media.

Iraq's top Shia leader Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani condemned the US attack and called on all parties to practice restraint, his office said in a statement for the Friday sermon from the city of Karbala.

"The vicious attack ... is an insolent breach of Iraqi sovereignty and international agreements. It led to the killing of several commanders who defeated Islamic State terrorists," Sistani's office said.

"These events and more indicate the country is heading towards very difficult times. We call on all concerned parties to behave with self-restraint and act wisely," he said.

'Take your battle elsewhere'

There were small celebrations by Iraqi protesters in Tahrir Square, the hub of the protest movement in the capital Baghdad, before the call for restraint was reiterated.

"We condemn the spilling of Iraqi blood regardless of who is behind this attack, but we equally reject the struggle between Iran and US from taking place on Iraqi soil," 33-year-old protester Borhan told Al Jazeera.

"There were small groups that started dancing after the announcement, but the majority of us have called for restraint in the face of these developments.

Analysis: Did the US just 'declare war' on Iran?

"We will remain steadfast in the face of any challenges and continue to call for the change we want, away from these proxy wars."

Thousands of Iraqis have taken to the streets since early October to call for a complete overhaul of a political system they see as sectarian, corrupt and denying them their basic rights.

The protests movement has condemned armed groups and their Iranian patrons that support the government.

In November, embattled Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi stepped down due to the protests but remains in office in a caretaker capacity.
At least 470 people have been killed in the unrest, some which was driven by anger at Iranian influence in Iraq.

"Although there were some scenes of celebration in Tahrir Square, majority of protesters are very concerned about the implications of these developments," Renad Mansour, head of the Iraq Initiative at Chatham House, told Al Jazeera.

"This is a dangerous time for Iraq as it moves into a period of greater instability and uncertainty. Iraqi protesters have been chanting against Soleimani and Muhandis but they also reject any sort of US intervention.

"This killing will lead to distract away from the protests as a focus on anti-American and ethno-sectarian politics take centre stage," Mansour added.

Iraq's muted response

Although Iraq's caretaker government, which has Iran's backing, issued a muted response to the events, PM Abdul Mahdi said the killings on Friday was "a dangerous escalation that will light the fuse of a destructive war in Iraq, the region, and the world".

"The assassination of an Iraqi military commander who holds an official position is considered aggression on Iraq ... and the liquidation of leading Iraqi figures or those from a brotherly country on Iraqi soil is a massive breach of sovereignty," he said before adding the US strike violated terms of the its military presence in Iraq.

He said that US troops were in Iraq to train Iraqi security forces and fight Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant [ISIL]. Some officials and parliamentarians have already called for the expulsion of US troops from Iraq following the attack.

Chatham House's Mansour said Iraq would witness changes in the coming days.

"The Iraqi parliament will most likely ask US forces to leave Iraq, while the US may become antagonist vis-a-vis the Baghdad," explained Mansour.

Iraq's parliament has representation from Tehran-backed armed groups, including Iraq's PMF, a grouping of mostly Iran-backed Shia militias led by Muhandis, and which helped security forces retake a third of Iraq from ISIL.

The groups' troops were later incorporated into Iraq's official armed forces.

https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020...t-days-soleimani-killing-200103122412024.html

 

[dildilpak]

Iran is like most countries today, they want to be a big player in what they consider to be their region.

The difference with the US is the Americans treat the whole world as their region, even if they are on a different hemisphere.

Attacking an Embassy of a country is considered an Act of War on the country itself, so there you are. Plus US has lot of financial interests & strategic assets (troops) in Iraq, Iran should have known that we would have responded if any of it were directly threatened. As i said, the magnitude of the response can be questioned, but the response itself was inevitable.