January 2020 - Iraq Special Weapons News

Pentagon raises number of US troops injured in Iran missile attack to 64 Press TV 31 Jan 2020 -- The Pentagon has yet again raised the figure of soldiers wounded in Iran's retaliatory missile attack in Iraq earlier this month to 64, saying they have suffered "traumatic brain injuries".
U.S. Raises Injury Toll In Iran Attack For Fourth Time, Now Says 64 Hurt RFE/RL 31 Jan 2020 -- The U.S. military has once again raised the number of U.S. service members who suffered traumatic brain injuries in Iran's missile strike on an Iraqi base earlier this month.
US Waiting on Iraq to Approve New Missile Defenses VOA 30 Jan 2020 -- U.S. efforts to better protect troops in Iraq from the threat of Iranian missiles are being held up by Iraqi officials, who have yet to decide whether to allow Patriot missile defense batteries into the country.
US Working With Baghdad to Deploy Patriots in Iraq After Iran Missile Strike - Pentagon Sputnik 30 Jan 2020 -- Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting US military bases in Iraq on January 8 in response to the US drone strike assassination of Revolutionary Guard Quds Force Commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad on January 3.
Iraq: Solutions needed 'urgently' to quell ongoing violence, break political deadlock UN News 30 Jan 2020 -- Amidst ongoing anti-government protests, rising casualties and the likelihood of further demonstrations, the top UN official in Iraq on Thursday, urged politicians to break the political deadlock, and "press ahead with substantial reforms".
UN: Islamic State Militants Not Getting Fair Trials in Iraq VOA 29 Jan 2020 -- A U.N. report says Islamic State militants in Iraq are often not getting fair trials and the judicial processes in the country are not up to international standards. The report, jointly published by the U.N. Assistance Mission for Iraq and the U.N. Human Rights Office, is based on hundreds of trials monitored between May 2018 and October 2019.
PM Abdul Mahdi urges US to de-escalate tensions in region Press TV 28 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi has, in a phone call with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, stressed the need for the de-escalation of tensions in the region.
Iraq: UN human rights report voices concern over conduct of ISIL fighter trials UN News 28 Jan 2020 -- A new UN report published on Tuesday shows that while considerable effort has been made by Iraqi authorities to bring former ISIL terrorist fighters to justice, there are "serious concerns" about the fairness of the proceedings.
US Stops Weapons Delivery to Iraq Amid Tensions With Baghdad - Reports Sputnik 28 Jan 2020 -- The United States stopped all weapons deliveries to Iraq in the midst of the growing tensions with the government in Baghdad, the US-based Inside Defense news site reported.
US State Dept. confirms rocket hitting dining facility of its Baghdad embassy Press TV 27 Jan 2020 -- At least one rocket has struck a dining facility at the US embassy compound in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, a US official has reportedly confirmed without pointing to possible casualties.
Iraq Forces Use Live Rounds on Demonstrators VOA 26 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi security forces, seeking to disperse protesters, used live bullets Sunday, wounding demonstrators in the capital, Baghdad, and the southern city of Nassiriya.
Iraq clears protest barriers after massive anti-US rallies Press TV 25 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi security forces have cleared concrete blocks from main protest sites in Baghdad and Basra, which a group of rioters had used to disrupt normal life.
Iraqi Protest Camps Burned and Broken, but Not Beaten VOA 25 Jan 2020 -- As Baghdad darkened Friday evening, teenage boys carrying shields made of barrels cut in half charged into a growing crowd. Riot police were moving forward across a bridge, pushing back protesters with gunfire and tear gas. Smoke from burning tires curled into the night.
34 U.S. troops diagnosed with traumatic brain injury after Iran's attack People's Daily 25 Jan 2020 -- Thirty-four U.S. troops had been diagnosed with concussions and traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of the Iranian missile attack on U.S. military base in Iraq earlier this month, the Pentagon said on Friday.
Department of Defense Press Briefing by Assistant to the Secretary of Defense Hoffman DoD 24 Jan 2020 -- Jonathan Rath Hoffman, Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs
DOD Official Says 34 Service Members Injured by Iranian Blast DoD News 24 Jan 2020 -- The number of U.S. service members injured with traumatic brain injuries totals 34 after a Jan. 8 attack when Iran shot missiles into Al Asad Airbase in Iraq, the Defense Department's chief spokesperson said today.
34 US troops suffered concussion, brain injury in Iranian strike: Pentagon Press TV 24 Jan 2020 -- The Pentagon has said that dozens of US troops were wounded in an Iranian retaliatory missile attack earlier this month despite Washington's initial claim denying casualties.
U.S. Says 34 Troops Suffered Brain Injuries In Iran Missile Strike RFE/RL 24 Jan 2020 -- The United States says 34 of its soldiers have been diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries following this month's Iranian missile attack on a military base in Iraq.
Pentagon Says 34 Personnel Diagnosed With Concussions After Iran Strikes on Bases in Iraq Sputnik 24 Jan 2020 -- Thirty-four US service members have been diagnosed with concussions and traumatic brain injuries after Iran conducted ballistic missile strikes on two bases in Iraq with half of them still undergoing medical treatment, Department of Defence spokesman Jonathan Hoffman said in a press briefing on 24 January.
34 US Troops Treated for Brain Injuries Following Iran Missile Attack VOA 24 Jan 2020 -- The Pentagon said Friday that 34 U.S. troops had been diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries or concussions as a result of Iran's missile attack on bases in Iraq earlier this month.
'Idiot' Trump had better pull out troops from Iraq voluntarily: Hashd al-Sha'abi leader Press TV 24 Jan 2020 -- President Donald Trump had better voluntarily order the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq before they are forced out, says a high-ranking official from the Iraqi Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), better known by the Arabic word Hashd al-Sha'abi.
Thousands Rally In Baghdad Against U.S. Military Presence RFE/RL 24 Jan 2020 -- Thousands of Iraqis have gathered at two locations in central Baghdad after a prominent Shi'ite cleric called for a "million-strong" protest against the U.S. military presence in the country.
Tens of Thousands Turn Out in Baghdad for Anti-US Protest VOA 24 Jan 2020 -- Tens of thousands of people poured into a central Baghdad square Friday for what had been billed as a "million-man" march, carrying Iraqi flags and signs and shouting "No, No America."
Special Representative for Syria Engagement and Special Envoy for the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS James Jeffrey US Dept. of State 23 Jan 2020 -- Special Briefing
Trump, Iraqi President Agree On Need For Continued U.S. Troop Presence RFE/RL 23 Jan 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump and his Iraqi counterpart Barham Salih have agreed on the need for U.S. military to maintain its presence in the Middle Eastern country, the White House says following a meeting of the two in Switzerland.
Focus Remains on Enduring Defeat of ISIS, Military Official Says DoD News 22 Jan 2020 -- Even amid significant successes, the enduring defeat of ISIS remains the focus of U.S. forces and partners in Iraq and Syria, an effort that is vital to U.S. national security, the deputy commander of Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve said.
Salih, Trump discuss American troop drawdown from Iraq Press TV 22 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi President Barham Salim and his US counterpart Donald Trump have exchanged viewpoints about a reduction in the number of American military forces in the war-ravaged Arab country, weeks after a parliamentary bill demanded the withdrawal of all US-led foreign troops.
Trump Not Ruling Out Iraq Sanctions VOA 22 Jan 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday did not rule out future sanctions against Iraq, but cited what he called "a very good relationship" when asked about potential plans for withdrawing U.S. troops from Iraq.
Remarks by President Trump and President Barzani of the Kurdistan Regional Government Before Bilateral Meeting | Davos, Switzerland The White House 22 Jan 2020
Remarks by President Trump and President Salih of the Republic of Iraq Before Bilateral Meeting | Davos, Switzerland The White House 22 Jan 2020
Iran informed Iraq of missile attacks in advance: MFA spox IRNA 20 Jan 2020 -- Spokesman of Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs Abbas Mousavi said on Monday that Tehran had Informed Iraqi government in advance about Iran's retaliatory missile attacks on two US bases in Iraq.
Protests resume in Iraq, demanding reforms, new govt. Press TV 20 Jan 2020 -- Protesters have returned to the streets in cities across Iraq, sealing roads with burning tires and threatening further escalation at a time of difficult economic conditions.
Baghdad to send delegates to Russia, China, Ukraine to buy latest air defense systems: Iraqi MP Press TV 20 Jan 2020 -- An Iraqi lawmaker says the Baghdad government is planning to send delegations to Russia, China and Ukraine to discuss the procurement of modern air defense missile systems to protect its territory from any possible act of aggression.
Iraqi Forces Say Detain One of Leaders of Daesh in Al-Fallujah Sputnik 19 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi Special Operations Forces (ISOF) have detained one of the leaders of the Daesh* terrorist group in the city of Al-Fallujah, Anbar province, the ISOF said.
Iraqi forces arrest obese Daesh mufti in Mosul Press TV 18 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi forces have arrested an overweight Daesh 'mufti' in the city of Mosul who advocated enslaving, raping, torturing and ethnic cleansing.
Two Demonstrators Killed In New Flare-Up Of Iraqi Antigovernment Protests RFE/RL 18 Jan 2020 -- At least two demonstrators were killed and 24 others hurt during clashes with security forces in central Baghdad in a new flare-up of protests against the country's political elite and widespread corruption.
11 US Troops Treated for Concussion Symptoms After Iranian Attack VOA 17 Jan 2020 -- The U.S. military says 11 service members have been treated for "concussion symptoms" following Iran's recent attack on two Iraqi bases where U.S. troops were stationed.
US military says 11 US troops wounded in Iranian missile attack despite earlier denials Press TV 17 Jan 2020 -- The United States military has said that 11 of its troops were wounded in an Iranian retaliatory missile attack last week despite Washington's initial claim denying casualties.
U.S. Military Now Says 11 U.S. Troops Injured In January 8 Iran Attack RFE/RL 17 Jan 2020 -- The U.S. military says 11 U.S. service members were treated for concussion symptoms following the January 8 Iran missile attack on a base in Iraq, despite earlier remarks by President Donald Trump that "no Americans were harmed" in the incident.
Iraq Captures Morbidly Obese Daesh Preacher 'Jabba the Jihadi' in Mosul, Netizens in Hysterics Sputnik 17 Jan 2020 -- Obesity is a global pandemic, particularly in the developed nations of the West. A recent anti-terrorist raid by Iraqi forces against remaining militant burrows, however, could partially dismantle suggestions that fat people only plague wealthy economies.
US threats over Baghdad's S-400 procurement detached from reality: Iraqi MP Press TV 16 Jan 2020 -- An Iraqi lawmaker has dismissed US threats to impose sanctions on Baghdad over its procurement of advanced Russian-made S-400 missile defense systems, saying such pressure is far away from realities on the ground.
US forces to suffer heavy defeat if they refuse to leave Iraq: Hashd Sha'abi group Press TV 16 Jan 2020 -- A senior official from Iraq's Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq group, which is part of the country's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) or Hashd al-Sha'abi, says his fellow comrades are ready to inflict heavy losses on American troops should Washington refuse to comply with a parliament decision demanding the withdrawal of all US-led foreign military forces from the Arab country.
Iraq denies report it has restarted joint military operations with US Press TV 16 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi government has denied claims that the country's military is resuming joint operations with the US-led coalition after Washington's assassination of top Iranian and Iraqi commanders.
German Defense Chief Visits Iraq Amid Uncertain Future For Foreign Troops RFE/RL 16 Jan 2020 -- Germany's defense chief has made a surprise visit to Baghdad to meet with Iraqi military leaders amid uncertainty over the status of foreign troops in the country.
Aid to vulnerable Iraqis may 'come to a complete halt within weeks' UN News 16 Jan 2020 -- Aid to vulnerable people in Iraq risks being completely blocked within weeks, warned the UN's humanitarian chief in Iraq, Marta Ruedas, on Tuesday, as a result of the suspension of government documents allowing humanitarians to carry out critical missions.
Five PKK-affiliated militiamen killed as unknown aircraft strikes northern Iraq Press TV 15 Jan 2020 -- At least five members of an Izadi militia group affiliated with the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) militant group have been killed when an unidentified aircraft struck their vehicle in Iraq's northern province of Nineveh.
Iraq's Sadr urges million-man march against US military presence Press TV 15 Jan 2020 -- Influential Iraqi Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr has demanded that Iraqis stage a "million-man march" against the continued US military presence in the country, days after Iraq's parliament voted to expel the American troops following an assassination operation by Washington on Iraqi soil.
US to Cut $250Mln in Military Aid to Iraq if Coalition Expelled - Reports Sputnik 15 Jan 2020 -- The US government is preparing to cut $250 million in military aid to Iraq if American troops are expelled from the country, media reported.
Iraqi Prime Minister Wants German Troops to Stay – Maas Sputnik 15 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi prime minister wants Germany to keep its troops but the Iraqi parliament's vote to expel all foreign forces cannot be ignored, the German foreign minister said Wednesday.
NATO and Iraq discuss developments in the Middle East and continued cooperation NATO 14 Jan 2020 -- Today (14 January 2020), NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg met with Iraq's Deputy Foreign Minister Abdul Karim Hashim Aboualgus at NATO Headquarters.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg meets with the First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Iraq, Abdul Karim Hashim Aboualgus
At Least Five Rockets Land Near Iraq Base Hosting US Forces - Reports Sputnik 14 Jan 2020 -- A US-led military coalition said to be backing the Iraqi government in its fight against Daesh terrorists has been training Iraqi army forces for several months at a military base located in Taji. The attack on the Iraqi base comes amid escalating tensions in the region due to the ongoing standoff between the United States and Iran.
US-Iran Tensions Play Out on Iraqi Territory VOA 14 Jan 2020 -- The United States has rejected a request by the Iraqi government to pull out troops and has threatened possible sanctions in response to the request. U.S. troops are there to train local forces and fight Islamic State militants, says Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Iraqi officials warn of economic 'collapse' if US cuts off access to oil revenues Press TV 13 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi officials have warned of economic "collapse" if the United States makes good on its threat to cut off its access to a US-based key bank account where oil revenues are kept.
U.S. Secretary Of State Pompeo Says Iraqi Leaders Privately Want U.S. Troops RFE/RL 13 Jan 2020 -- \U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo maintains that various sectarian leaders in Iraq support the presence of U.S. forces in the country, despite public demands for them to leave.
US to Work With Iraq on Possible Troop Reduction – Pompeo Sputnik 13 Jan 2020 -- The United States will work with Iraqi leaders to possibly reduce the Pentagon's military footprint in the country while preserving American interests, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo suggested on Monday.
Pompeo Calls On Iraqi Gov't to Punish Those Responsible For Attack on Air Base in Iraq Sputnik 13 Jan 2020 -- US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called on the Iraqi government to take all possible measures to protect its military bases and hold accountable those responsible for the recent shelling of the Balad military airbase, which houses US troops.
Volley of rockets hit Iraqi airbase hosting US forces, wound several local troops: Iraq's military Press TV 12 Jan 2020 -- A rocket barrage has hit an Iraqi airbase hosting US forces north of the capital Baghdad, Iraq's military says.
US threatens to cut off Iraq's access to oil account in New York if troops expelled: Paper Press TV 12 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi officials say the administration of US President Donald Trump has threatened to shut off Iraq's access to a key central banking account if Baghdad expels American troops from the Arab country.
Trump's National Security Advisor Reveals Circumstances Under Which US Would Withdraw From Iraq Sputnik 12 Jan 2020 -- Last week, following the US drone strike against a senior Iranian commander in Baghdad, Iraq's parliament passed a resolution calling for the expulsion of all foreign troops from the country and the cancellation of Iraq's cooperation with the US-led coalition against Daesh (ISIS).*
4 Iraqi Troops Wounded in Attack on Air Base North of Baghdad VOA 12 Jan 2020 -- Four members of Iraq's military were wounded in a rocket attack on a base north of Baghdad, Iraq's military said Sunday.
KRG supports Baghdad's decision on US troop pullout from Iraq Press TV 11 Jan 2020 -- The president of Iraq's semi-autonomous Kurdistan region, Nechirvan Barzani, says the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) supports a decision made by the central government in Baghdad concerning the withdrawal of US military forces from the country.
Trump: US troops won't leave Iraq unless it pays for 'money we put in' Press TV 11 Jan 2020 -- US President Donald Trump says American troops should not leave Iraq unless Baghdad pays for "the money we put in" the country over the past several years, defying calls by Iraqi officials for US troops to withdraw.
US rebuffs Iraq's call to withdraw troops from Arab country Press TV 11 Jan 2020 -- The United States has rejected Iraq's call to pull American forces out of the Arab country, claiming that their presence was "appropriate."
Iraq's PMU commanders hold summit over US assassinations Press TV 11 Jan 2020 -- Operation commanders of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units have convened to examine recent developments in the country, specifically US assassination of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani and the Iraqi deputy PMU head Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.
Iraq wants US to set up mechanism for withdrawal of troops Press TV 10 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi has called on the United States to dispatch a delegation to Baghdad tasked with formulating a mechanism for the withdrawal of US troops from the country in the wake of the assassination of Iran's Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the second-in-command of Iraqi Popular Mobilization Units (PMU).
U.S. Focuses On 'How To Best Recommit' After Iraqi PM's Request For Plan On Withdrawal RFE/RL 10 Jan 2020 -- The United States has seemingly dismissed an Iraqi government request to discuss plans for pulling U.S. troops out of Iraq, saying the United States is "a force for good in the Middle East" and its focus and military presence in Iraq should be on fighting Islamic State (IS) militants and "protecting Americans, Iraqis, and our coalition partners."
The U.S. Continued Partnership with Iraq US Dept. of State 10 Jan 2020 -- America is a force for good in the Middle East. Our military presence in Iraq is to continue the fight against ISIS and as the Secretary has said, we are committed to protecting Americans, Iraqis, and our coalition partners.
Airstrikes Target Popular Mobilization Forces Depot on Syria-Iraq Border - Reports Sputnik 10 Jan 2020 -- Airstrikes targeted trucks and individuals near the Iraqi-Syrian border, including Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in the area, in an early morning airstrike, according to translations from Arabic-language outlet Al Mayadeen, citing tribesmen.
Al-Hakim stresses need for withdrawal of foreign troops from Iraq Press TV 09 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi Foreign Minister Mohammad Ali al-Hakim has stressed the need for US and other foreign troops to leave Iraq as a backlash grows over the recent American assassination of a top Iranian general in Baghdad.
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Iraqi Prime Minister Abdel-Mahdi US Dept. of State 09 Jan 2020
Iraq negotiating with Russia to buy S-300 missile system: Top Iraqi lawmaker Press TV 09 Jan 2020 -- A senior Iraqi legislator says Baghdad is in talks with Moscow to purchase Russian-built long-range, surface-to-air S-300 missile defense systems.
Iraq's Foreign Minister to Iran: Strikes on US Forces Violated Our Sovereignty Sputnik 09 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi Foreign Affairs Ministry has informed the Iranian Embassy in Baghdad that it considers the Wednesday morning missile attacks on two US bases in Iraq to have been violations of Iraq's sovereignty.
Australian PM Morrison Says Not Withdrawing Troops From Iraq Sputnik 09 Jan 2020 -- Concerns have risen recently about the situation in the Middle East after Iran conducted airstrikes against US military facilities in Iraq as "revenge" for killing its top military commander Qasem Soleimani. The tensions, however, have de-escalated after President Trump did not announce any retaliatory military action against Iran.
FM Zarif attaches value for territorial integrity, independence of Iraq IRNA 08 Jan 2020 -- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif emphasized that the Iraqi government had been informed of an Iranian missile strike, noting Iran attaches high value for Iraq's territorial integrity and independence and believes that security must be based on the mutual respect and territorial integrity of all countries in the region.
Iraq condemns Iranian missile attack on the two Iraqi military bases SPA 08 Jan 2020 -- Iraq condemned latest Iranian missile attack on the two Iraqi military bases hosting American and international coalition forces.
Iraqi Militia Leader Says Their Response to US Will Not be Lesser Than Iranian Retaliation - Reports Sputnik 08 Jan 2020 -- Two waves of airstrikes were launched against US military facilities in Erbil and the Ayn al-Asad Air Base in Iraq, housing US-led coalition forces on Wednesday morning following the assassination of the Commander of the IRGC's elite Quds Force Qasem Soleimani last week.
Iraq response to US no less in size than that of Iran: Senior PMU cmdr. Press TV 08 Jan 2020 -- A senior commander of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) says it is time for an Iraqi response to the recent US assassination operation on the Arab country's soil, and that the reaction will be "no less than in size" than Tehran's missile strikes on two American bases in Iraq.
Iraqi Kurds Concerned About US-Iran Escalation VOA 08 Jan 2020 -- Leaders in the autonomous region of Kurdistan in northern Iraq said Wednesday that they were worried that any further escalation between the United States and Iran on Iraqi soil could throw the already unstable nation into a more volatile situation.
Iraqis Want De-escalation and Dialogue, Chaldean Archbishop Says VOA 08 Jan 2020 -- Iraqis are fearful about the continued use of their territory as a battleground, especially between the U.S. and Iran, says Iraq's Chaldean Catholic Archbishop Yousif Thomas Mirkis, who serves the faithful in the fractious northern city of Kirkuk. He says Iraqis would like to see the U.S. and Iran stop their war of words as well as missiles, and begin a dialogue.
Second Wave of Missile Attacks Fired Against US Targets in Iraq - Iranian Media Sputnik 08 Jan 2020 -- A second series of rockets have been launched toward US targets in Iraq, shortly after dozens of missiles struck US military facilities in the area earlier Wednesday morning local time, according to Iranian media reports.
Iran Attacks Iraqi Sites With U.S. Troops Hours After Funeral Of Slain Commander RFE/RL 08 Jan 2020 -- Iran on January 8 launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles targeting multiple locations in Iraq, including at least two military bases housing U.S. troops and coalition forces, the Pentagon said.
'Hard Revenge': Iran's IRGC Bombards Al-Asad, Other US Bases in Iraq Sputnik 08 Jan 2020 -- Ayn al-Asad Air Base in western Iraq, which houses a large US air base, has been struck with several rockets following a strike carried out by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) as "revenge" for the killing of Iranian Quds Force commander Gen. Qasem Soleimani, reported Press TV.
DOD Statement on Iranian Ballistic Missile Attacks in Iraq DoD 07 Jan 2020 -- At approximately 5:30 p.m. (EST) on January 7, Iran launched more than a dozen ballistic missiles against U.S. military and coalition forces in Iraq. It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting U.S. military and coalition personnel at Al-Assad and Irbil.
Iran Fires Missiles at 2 Iraqi Air Bases Housing US Forces, Pentagon Says VOA 07 Jan 2020 -- Iran has fired more than a dozen ballistic missiles into at least two Iraqi air bases that house U.S. troops, the Pentagon says.
France Boosts Security of Troops in Iraq Amid US-Iran Tensions Sputnik 08 Jan 2020 -- France stepped up security measures to protect military personnel in Iraq after a US strike on an Iranian commander in Baghdad heightened tensions in the region, the French Defence Minister said Tuesday.
US has no plan to leave Iraq: Pentagon chief Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- US Defense Secretary Mark Esper says Washington has made no decision to pull its military forces out of Iraq, dismissing a signed letter from the US side announcing a troop withdrawal.
US-led coalition temporarily relocates headquarters from Iraq to Kuwait: Report Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- The the US-led military coalition purportedly fighting the Daesh terrorist group has reportedly relocated its headquarters in Iraq to Kuwait in the wake of recent assassination of Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force of Iran's Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), and the second-in-command of Iraqi Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and public rage over the targeted killings.
US bases on heightened security alert following Soleimani assassination Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- US military bases are placed on heightened security alert following the assassination of a top Iranian commander.
Latvia Stops Training Iraqi Security Forces - Defence Ministry Sputnik 07 Jan 2020 -- Latvian troops stopped training with Iraqi security forces in the wake of escalated regional tensions, Defence Ministry spokesman Kaspars Galkins said.
NATO Temporarily Suspends Training Mission in Iraq DoD News 07 Jan 2020 -- Although NATO is committed to the training mission in Iraq, the alliance has suspended training operations in the country, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said in Brussels today.
NATO to withdraw some troops from Iraq after Soleimani assassination Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- The US-led NATO military alliance has announced plans for a temporary withdrawal of some of its troops and personnel from Iraq following the United States' assassination of a top anti-terror Iranian military commander in the Arab country.
Iraq PM confirms receiving 'signed' US pullout letter Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- Amid confusion over a reported US letter to Iraq announcing the steps its military would take to move out of Iraq, Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi confirms that Baghdad has actually received "signed and translated" copies from the US Army concerning the withdrawal.
Trump administration drafting post-pullout sanctions against Iraq: Report Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- The administration of US President Donald Trump has reportedly started drafting possible economic sanctions against Iraq should the country expel American troops.
NATO Withdraws Some Personnel From Iraq Due to Safety Concerns, Alliance Official Says Sputnik 07 Jan 2020 -- Earlier, the alliance announced that it would be scaling down its activities in the Middle Eastern country following the spike in tensions caused by the US assassination of a senior Iranian military commander.
Germany slashing troop numbers in Iraq Press TV 07 Jan 2020 -- Germany says it is reducing its military presence in Iraq, in the latest fallout from the United States' assassination of Iranian commander Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani.
Influential cleric: Iraq will turn into new Vietnam for US if its forces stay Press TV 06 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's influential cleric, Muqtada al-Sadr, has released a statement saying that if US troops do not leave the country, Iraq will turn into a new Vietnam for Washington.
Press Gaggle With Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark A. Milley DoD 06 Jan 2020 -- Secretary Of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark A. Milley
Esper: U.S. Continues to Deploy, Reposition Troops in Middle East DoD News 06 Jan 2020 -- The United States continues to deploy and reposition troops throughout the region of Iraq and Iran to bolster U.S. security and force protection and to be prepared for any contingency, Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper said.
Mistakenly Sent Draft Letter Falsely Announces US Forces Preparing to Leave Iraq Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- A Monday letter sent to Iraqi military leaders, the US-led coalition in Iraq announced it was preparing to "move out" of the country out of respect for Iraqi sovereignty. However, Pentagon leaders later clarified it was an unsigned draft sent by "mistake."
Esper: US Not Withdrawing from Iraq VOA 06 Jan 2020 -- The United States is not withdrawing troops from Iraq, Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Monday, with the top U.S. military officer explaining that a letter from a senior military officer that appeared to suggest withdrawal was a poorly worded mistake.
Trump threatens harsh sanctions against Iraq after parliament vote People's Daily 06 Jan 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to impose harsh sanctions on Iraq after the war-torn country's parliament passed a resolution urging the government to expel foreign troops.
US not to leave Iraq, unless they pay for our base: Trump Press TV 06 Jan 2020 -- US President Donald Trump has vowed to launch sanctions on Iraq after the parliament votes to ban the American forces' presence in the country.
Iraqi PM stresses foreign troops withdrawal in talks with US ambassador Press TV 06 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's caretaker prime minister says his country and the United States should work together on implementing the withdrawal of all foreign troops from the country.
Iraq Limits US-Led Coalition's Ground, Air Movements After Soleimani Killing – Reports Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's parliament on Sunday voted in favour of removing US troops after a powerful Iranian military commander was killed in a US airstrike in Baghdad. President Trump has threatened Iraq with sanctions should the plan go forward.
Iraqi Forces Trying to Keep Pressure on Islamic State VOA 06 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi forces are pushing ahead with their crackdown on Islamic State's ongoing insurgency, despite the pause in assistance from the United States and coalition partners.
E3 stresses on importance of de-escalating tensions in Iraq, Iran ISNA 06 Jan 2020 -- The 'E3' group of countries comprised of France, Britain and Germany called on Iran to refrain from any alleged "violent action" and urged Iran to go back to arrangements laid out in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) 2015 nuclear deal with world powers.
Trump Administration Attempted to Block Iraqi Parliament Vote on Expelling Foreign Troops - Report Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- On Sunday, the Iraqi parliament voted in favor of expelling all foreign military troops from the territories of Iraq following the killing of Iranian top military commander Qasem Soleimani and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, a senior member of Iraq's Iranian-backed Popular Mobilization Forces, by a US drone strike in Baghdad.
Trump Says US Will Not Leave Iraq Until Baghdad Pays for American Air Base, Threatens Sanctions Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi parliament on Sunday voted to expel all foreign troops from the nation's territories and cut off ties with the US-led international anti-terrorist coalition after Friday's assassination of Qasem Soleimani, the commander of the elite Quds Force of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) in Baghdad, by the US
US Expresses Disappointment Over Iraqi Legislature's Decision to Expel Foreign Troops Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- The US expresses disappointment over Iraqi parliament's vote on expelling foreign troops from Iraq and cutting off ties with the US-led international anti-terrorist coalition, the US State Department said, as tensions in the area are rising after the killing of an Iranian military commander and an Iraqi militia leader in Baghdad.
Iraqi Government Working on Steps to Expel Foreign Troops – Prime Minister Sputnik 06 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi government has begun working on steps to implement the parliament's decision on the expulsion of foreign forces from the country, the press service of Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi said in a statement, as regional tensions are rising in the wake of the assassination of Iranian general by the United States in Baghdad.
US Fight Against IS 'Paused' Amid Rocket Attacks VOA 05 Jan 2020 -- The U.S.-led coalition fighting Islamic State forces announced Sunday it has "paused" its activities training local forces in the wake of rocket attacks in Iraq.
Trump Threatens Sanctions on Iraq if US Forces are Expelled VOA 05 Jan 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump says the United States will not leave Iraq unless it is paid back for a U.S. air base it built there.
Iraq's PM calls for putting an end to foreign troops in Iraq IRNA 05 Jan 2020 -- Interim Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi on Sunday attended a parliamentary meeting to discuss a plan to expel US troops from Iraq, stressing that the immediate withdrawal of foreign troops from Iraq or setting a timetable for implementing the move would be two options facing Iraq.
Iraqi foreign ministry summons US envoy over 'violation of sovereignty' Press TV 05 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi foreign ministry has summoned US ambassador Matthew Tueller to condemn recent American strikes in the capital Baghdad that resulted in the assassination of Iran's top military commander, Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, and the second-in-command of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.
Iraqi lawmakers approve bill to expel US forces from country Press TV 05 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi lawmakers have unanimously approved a bill, demanding the withdrawal of all foreign military forces led by the United States from the country following the assassination of Iran's top military commander, Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, and the second-in-command of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.
Iraqi Parliament Calls For U.S. Troops To Leave The Country In Wake Of Soleimani Killing RFE/RL 05 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's parliament has passed a resolution calling for foreign troops to leave the country in the wake of a U.S. air strike that killed Iran's top military commander, Qasem Soleimani, near Baghdad last week.
GCC Secretary General Calls for Calm and Dialogue in Iraq SPA 05 Jan 2020 -- GCC Secretary General Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al-Zayani said in a statement that the GCC countries have followed with great concern the serious events and developments in the brotherly country of Iraq.
At Least 3 Shells Hit Baghdad's Green Zone, Adjacent Area of US Embassy in Iraq Sputnik 05 Jan 2020 -- The shelling comes hours after Iraq's parliament voiced its support to order the withdrawal of US-led coalition troops from the country and end all foreign military presence in Iraq, including in the nation's airspace and surrounding territorial waters.
Iraqi Shiite Cleric Sadr Calls for International 'Resistance Legions' as MPs Vote to Oust US Troops Sputnik 05 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi parliament on Sunday urged the government, which had already approved the plan, to expel US-led coalition forces from the country, outraged by a US strike that killed a top Iranian commander and Iraqi militants on Friday.
Iraqi Parliament Votes to End Foreign Military Presence, Scrap US-Led Coalition Agreement - Reports Sputnik 05 Jan 2020 -- The reports emerge as the US-led coalition fighting Daesh* in Iraq has said that it has suspended its fight against the terror group amid increased attacks on US personnel.
Iran: US continued military presence in Iraq shows occupation IRNA 05 Jan 2020 -- Secretary of Supreme National Security Council Ali Shamkhani hailed the law enacted by the Iraqi parliament on exit of the US forces from that country, saying that the US continued presence in Iraq amounts to occupying the country.
Soleimani was to deliver Tehran's reply to Saudi de-escalation letter when killed: Iraqi PM Press TV 05 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Caretaker Prime Minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi has said that Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani was set to deliver Tehran's reply to an earlier Saudi message regarding de-escalation talks mediated by Baghdad when he was assassinated.
Iraq lodges complaint to UN chief, UNSC over US assassination of Lt. Gen. Soleimani, Muhandis Press TV 05 Jan 2020 -- Iraq says it has lodged a formal complaint to the UN chief and the UN Security Council (UNSC) over the US assassination of Iran's top military commander, Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani, and the second-in-command of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.
US - Led Coalition Confirms Two Attacks on 4 January Near Iraqi Bases That Host American Forces Sputnik 05 Jan 2020 -- On Saturday, the Iraqi capital witnessed several rocket attacks, including in the residential area of Al-Jadriya and the Balad military base that houses US forces, some 50 miles north of Baghdad.
Ayatollah Sistani says US violated Iraqi sovereignty by targeting Soleimani IRNA 04 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Grand Cleric Ayatollah Ali Sistani said in a statement that US violated Iraqi national sovereignty by targeting Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Iraq, calling on all parties to exercise self-restraint.
Assassination of Iranian commander raises fears of turning Iraq into battleground People's Daily 04 Jan 2020 -- The U.S. strike that killed a senior Iranian commander raised fears among Iraqis that their homeland could become the main battlefield in the looming conflict between Iran and the United States.
Rockets, mortar shells hit Iraq's Balad Air Base, Baghdad's Green Zone: Sources Press TV 04 Jan 2020 -- The Green Zone of the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, home to the US embassy, and the Balad Air Base, where US troops are stationed, have come under mortar shell and rocket attacks, respectively, police sources say.
US-led coalition, Iraqi military deny airstrike north of Baghdad Global Times 04 Jan 2020 -- The US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State (IS) militant group and the Iraqi military on Saturday denied any airstrike north of Baghdad.
Iraq Military Says No Strike Took Place in Taji, North of Baghdad – Report Sputnik 04 Jan 2020 -- Earlier in the day, Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF) issued a statement, claiming that a two-car convoy of PMF medics has been hit in a new airstrike in northern Baghdad.
Iraq's PMU denies strike on fighters as US mounts attacks on anti-terror group Press TV 04 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) has denied a fresh US airstrike targeted its fighters as the United States steps up attacks on the counter-terrorism paramilitary group in the Arab country.
Rocket Attacks Hit Baghdad's Green Zone, Balad Base Hosting US Troops Sputnik 04 Jan 2020 -- Tensions are running high in the Middle East as Iran promised a decisive retaliation against the United States following the killing of Iranian top military official Qasem Soleimani.
Iraq Restricts US Military Operations After Soleimani Killing – Military Spokesman Sputnik 04 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) has denied a fresh US airstrike targeted its fighters as the United States steps up attacks on the counter-terrorism paramilitary group in the Arab country.
US suspends purported training of Iraqi forces: Germany Press TV 04 Jan 2020 -- The United States has suspended the purported training of Iraqi forces in the Arab country amid fears of fresh violence following the assassination of a top Iranian military commander, a senior German officer says.
NATO Suspends Training Missions in Iraq as Tensions Run High Over Killing of Iranian Commander Sputnik 04 Jan 2020 -- Experts and analysts have been speculating over what the potential blowback for America and the Middle East could be following Washington's targeted assassination of one of Iran's top statesmen. One unforeseen consequence that appears to already be unfolding is the impact that it could have on the fight against Daesh.
Iraq's National Security Council denounces US assassination of Lt. Gen. Soleimani Press TV 04 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's National Security Council has condemned a US airstrike that led to the assassination of Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), in the Iraqi capital Baghdad.
U.S. Designates Iraqi Shi'ite Militia As Foreign Terrorist Organization RFE/RL 04 Jan 2020 -- The United States has designated Asaib Ahl Al-Haq as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO), saying the Iraqi militia is a proxy for Iran.
State Department Terrorist Designations of Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq and Its Leaders, Qays and Laith al-Khazali US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020 -- Today, the Secretary of State announced his intent to designate Aas'ib Ahl al-Haq - also known as AAH - as a Foreign Terrorist Organization (FTO) under section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. Additionally, the Secretary has designated AAH and two of its leaders, brothers Qays and Laith al-Khazali, as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGT) under Executive Order (E.O.) 13224.
Iraq's top Shia cleric condemns US assassination of 'heroes of anti-Daesh fight' Press TV 03 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's top Shia cleric Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani has strongly condemned the US assassination of Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani and his comrades, calling them the "heroes of fight against Daesh" terrorist group.
Iraqi PM warns of devastating war, Sadr orders forces to be ready Press TV 03 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul-Mahdi has condemned US assassination of IRGC Quds Force commander General Qassem Soleimani, warning of devastating consequences for Iraq as senior Shia cleric Muqtada al-Sadr put all his forces on alert.
US embassy in Baghdad urges Americans to leave Iraq after assassination of Soleimani Press TV 03 Jan 2020 -- The US Embassy in the Iraqi capital Baghdad has urged all American citizens to immediately leave the country following the assassination of Iranian Major General Qassem Soleimani, which was carried out by US forces on the orders of President Donald Trump.
Senior State Department Officials On the Situation in Iraq US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020 -- Special Briefing
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Iraqi President Barham Salih US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Barzani US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with the Speaker of Iraq's Council of Representatives Mohammed al-Halbousi US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Pakistani Chief of Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Pompeo's Call With U.K. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Iraqi President: US to face security consequences IRNA 03 Jan 2020 -- Iraqi President Barham Salih said on Friday that assassination of the IRGC's Quds Force Commander Lieutenant General Qasem Soleimani will have security consequences for the US in Iraq and the region while inviting all parties to exercise self-restraint.
German Armed Forces Not Allowed to Leave Bases in Iraq After Killing of Iranian Top Commander Sputnik 03 Jan 2020 -- The tensions in the Middle East flared up in December following an attack on the US Embassy in Baghdad, which was stormed by protesters in response to Washington's strikes in Iraq and Syria. The situation escalated overnight as the head of the Iranian IRGC's Quds Force Qasem Soleimani was assassinated in an airstrike by the US military.
China urges calm, restraint to avoid tension escalation in Gulf area Global Times 03 Jan 2020 -- The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Friday urged relevant parties, especially the United States, to remain calm and restrained to avoid further escalating the current tensions in the Gulf area.
Secretary Pompeo's Call With Chinese Politburo Member Yang Jiechi US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian US Dept. of State 03 Jan 2020
Commander of Iran's Quds Force, PMU deputy head martyred in US strike Press TV 03 Jan 2020 -- Major General Qassem Soleimani, the commander of the Quds Force of Iran’s Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC), and Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, the second-in-command of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU), have been killed in US airstrikes in the Iraqi capital Baghdad.
Iran's Powerful Quds Force Chief Reportedly Killed In U.S. Air Strike In Iraq RFE/RL 03 Jan 2020 -- Multiple news sources, including Iraqi state TV, are reporting that Qasem Soleimani, the ultra-powerful commander of Iran's Quds Force, has been killed in an apparent U.S. air strike in Baghdad.
Iranian Quds Commander Qasem Soleimani, PMF Deputy Leader Killed in Baghdad Airport Attack - Report Sputnik 03 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Shia Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) said on Friday that several members of the militia, as well as several " guests", were killed by rocket fire near the Baghdad International Airport.
US Behind Baghdad Airport Attack That Killed Iranian Quds Commander, PMF Deputy Leader - Report Sputnik 03 Jan 2020 -- Earlier in the day, Iraq's Shia Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) said on Friday that five members of the militia as well as "two guests" had been killed by rocket fire near the Baghdad International Airport, media reported.
Statement by the Department of Defense DOD 02 Jan 2020 -- At the direction of the President, the U.S. military has taken decisive defensive action to protect U.S. personnel abroad by killing Qasem Soleimani, the head of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps-Quds Force, a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization.
Statement by Secretary of Defense Dr. Mark T. Esper as Prepared DoD 02 Jan 2020 -- "Last Friday, the Iranian-backed militia Kata'ib Hizbollah or KH launched yet another attack against American forces in Iraq, resulting in the death of one American civilian, and injuries to four American service members, as well as two of our partners in the Iraqi Security Forces. This continues a string of attacks against bases with U.S. forces and Iraqi Security Forces. KH has a strong linkage to the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Quds Force and has received lethal aid, support, and direction from Iran."
Esper: US Prepared to Take 'Preemptive' Action on Iran VOA 02 Jan 2020 -- The U.S. is prepared to take "preemptive" military action to prevent future attacks on U.S. forces, Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Thursday.
Press Gaggle by Secretary Esper and Chairman Milley DoD 02 Jan 2020 -- Secretary Of Defense Mark T. Esper, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark A. Milley
Esper: Kataeb Hezbollah Will 'Likely Regret' Further Provocative Behavior DoD News 02 Jan 2020 -- U.S. forces in Iraq were attacked Dec. 27 near Kirkuk by Kataeb Hezbollah, a group with links to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's Quds Force. The attack, which involved 31 rockets fired, killed one American civilian contractor and injured four American service members as well as two partners in the Iraqi security forces, Defense Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper said.
Iraq's PMU forces launch anti-terror operation in Nineveh province, secure 8 villages Press TV 02 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU) have launched an offensive to clear remnants of the Daesh terrorist group from a strategic area in the Arab country's northern province of Nineveh.
Secretary Pompeo's Call with the Speaker of Iraq's Council of Representatives Mohammed al-Halbousi US Dept. of State 02 Jan 2020
Iraq's Hashd Shaabi calls its protesters near U.S. embassy in Baghdad to withdraw People's Daily 02 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi paramilitary Hashd Shaabi forces called Wednesday on protesters who stormed the U.S. embassy in Baghdad to withdraw, a Hashd Shaabi statement said.
Iraqi Paramilitaries Withdraw From U.S. Embassy In Baghdad RFE/RL 01 Jan 2020 -- Iraq's military said pro-Iran paramilitary groups have withdrawn from outside the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, a day after a mob attacked the compound, prompting U.S. authorities to deploy hundreds more troops to the region.
Iranian-Backed Protesters Withdraw From US Embassy Compound in Baghdad VOA 01 Jan 2020 -- Iranian-backed paramilitary groups protesting U.S. airstrikes in Iraq withdrew from the U.S. Embassy compound in Baghdad Wednesday after a second day of protests while Tehran and Washington traded threats.
4,000 US troops ordered to deploy in Middle East amid Iraq unrest: Officials Press TV 01 Jan 2020 -- Up to 4,000 American paratroopers have been ordered to deploy to the Middle East region following mass protests outside the US embassy by Iraqi protesters infuriated over Washington's recent deadly military aggression on the Arab country.
DoD to Immediately Deploy 750 More Soldiers to Middle East After US Embassy Attack in Iraq - Esper Sputnik 01 Jan 2020 -- On Tuesday Iraqi protesters set on fire the outside fence of the US Embassy in the capital of Baghdad, reportedly in response to American airstrikes against the Iraqi Shia Kata'ib Hezbollah militia. US officials were quick to claim that Iran had orchestrated the demonstration.
Secretary Michael R. Pompeo's Call with Iraqi PM al-Mahdi US Dept. of State 01 Jan 2020
Leader: US taking revenge from Iraqi Shia volunteers for fighting ISIS IRNA 01 Jan 2020 -- Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei on Wednesday strongly condemned US air raids on Hashd al-Shaabi Iraqi Shia volunteers, saying that they are taking revenge from the Iraqi Shia group for fighting ISIS.
US accusations against Iran aimed at distracting attentions from Iraqis' anger toward Washington: Ravanchi ISNA 01 Jan 2020 -- Iran's ambassador and permanent representative to the UN, Majid Takht Ravanchi said that US bogus accusations against Iran are aimed at distracting public opinion from their 17 years of military occupation in Iraq and killing over 300,000 innocent civilians.
Iran warns US against showing any thoughtless, wrong reaction ISNA 01 Jan 2020 -- Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran has hit back at the US for its barefaced accusations against Iran following the recent protests in Iraq over a ferocious American military attack on the Iraqi forces.
Trump blames Iran for demonstrators storming U.S. Embassy in Baghdad People's Daily 01 Jan 2020 -- The Iraqi paramilitary Hashd Shaabi forces called Wednesday on protesters who stormed the U.S. embassy in Baghdad to withdraw, a Hashd Shaabi statement said.
Trump Threatens Iran, Does Not See War After Baghdad Embassy Attack VOA 01 Jan 2020 -- Security forces at the U.S. Embassy in Iraq's capital used tear gas Wednesday to disperse protesters led by pro-Iran militiamen as they gathered for a second day at the diplomatic site.
US embassy in Baghdad suspends consular operations Press TV 01 Jan 2020 -- The US Embassy in Baghdad says it has suspended all of its public consular operations, a day after thousands of Iraqi demonstrators gathered there to condemn Washington's fatal military aggression targeting Iraq's Popular Mobilization Units (PMU).

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

January 2020 - Iraq Special Weapons News