LIVE: Three Katyusha rockets hit Iraq's Green Zone

Air Traffic in the Middle East has drastically reduced after Iran launched multiple attacks on bases housing US troops in Iraq. Amid escalating tensions in the region, several countries have issued advisories to its civil carriers to avoid using the airspace above Iraq, Iran, and the Gulf. 

The Iranian government has declared that they will be observing a day of national mourning on January 9 over the Ukrainian passenger plane crash and a stampede at the funeral of Qassem Soleimani. Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei condoled the families of the people who died in this incident. 

"Government expresses condolences to the families of our compatriots who died in Kerman during the funeral ceremony of slain commander Qassem Soleimani and in a plane crash this morning, the government declared January 9 a national mourning day," Rabiei wrote on Twitter. 

Al-Assad and Ibril airbases in Iraq that houses the US and coalition forces have been hit by multiple rockets during the wee hours on Wednesday. This incident was first reported by Iranian state TV, who described it as Tehran’s revenge operation over the killing of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Gen. Qassem Soleimani. 

This also follows the development where the pro-Tehran factions in Iraq vowed to join forces and respond to the US for the killing of Iranian General. The US military has also confirmed that ongoing air attacks are taking place in the Iraqi airbase. The White House press secretary also said that the US President Donald Trump “has been briefed and is monitoring the situation” in Iraq. 

Tensions between Iran & US 

The longstanding tension between Iran and US surfaced again as the Iranian General was slain by the US in an airstrike near Iraq's Baghdad International Airport, ordered by US President Donald Trump on Friday. Post this, Iran had threatened "harsh retaliation" and subsequently, two airstrikes were reported near US Embassy in Baghdad’s Green Zone on Saturday and Sunday.  

Following the developments, Trump said that the US would strike 52 sites in the Islamic Republic if any Americans were harmed. After this, there has been a continuous war of words between the two countries' officials.

After the Iraqi airbase housing the US military and coalition forces were attacked by multiple rockets, the US Department of Defence issued a statement and said that they will take all necessary measures to protect and defend US personnel, partners, and allies in the region. 

The statement issued by the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs Jonathan Hoffman also said that it was clear that these missiles were launched from Iran. An Iranian state TV described the attack as Tehran’s revenge operation over the killing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Gen. Qassem Soleimani.  

Speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi received a call from Vice President of the United States Mike Pence and brief him about the Iranian attacks.

Nancy Pelosi asserts that they are closely monitoring the situation

Australian PM, Scott Morrison directed the Australian defence force “to take whatever actions are necessary” to protect Australian troops and diplomats in Iraq.

US Federal Aviation Administration has barred US pilots and carriers from flying over the areas of Iraqi, Iranian and some Persian Gulf airspace.

Iranian leader Saeed Jalili posted the image of an Iranian flag after the airstrike on Iraq's airbase.

Similarly, Donald Trump had tweeted the image of an American flag after the killing of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani.

After the burial of the slain Iranian general Qassem Soleimani was postponed on Tuesday, he was laid to rest on Wednesday.

US Senator and Democratic Presidential contender Elizabeth Warren speaks on the need for de-escalation in the Middle East. Warren is the first Presidential contender of the US 2020 race to comment on the incident. 

Veterans from Obama administration caution restraint in US' response to Iran attacks.

Former Vice President and the Presidential contender in US 2020 race, Joe Biden refrains from hasty comment on the situation, sends thoughts and prayers for the US troops in Iraq. 

The Foreign Minister of Islamic Republic of Iran, Javad Zarif reiterates Tehran's stance, following the rocket attacks on bases housing US airbases in Iraq. Zarif tweeted in the early hours of Wednesday morning, saying that 'they do not seek an escalation of war' and explained the attacks as 'self-defense'. 

The US President has tweeted, breaking hours of silence over escalating tensions of Washington with its old foe. Trump said that an assessment of casualties and damages is taking place now. The President has also informed he will be making a statement tomorrow morning. 

Ministry of External Affairs, India, official spokesperson Raveesh Kumar issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals in view of the prevailing situation in Iraq. The MEA has advised Indians to avoid all non-essential travel to Iraq until further notice.

India joins a list of nations, including US and Bangladesh, who has issued a travel advisory to its citizens amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Government sources stated that India has advised all Indian carriers to avoid the airspace over Iran, Iraq, and the Gulf following escalating tensions in the region. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation said, "We had held meetings with the concerned Airlines and have sensitized them to remain vigilant and take all precautions." 

India has so far issued three advisories. 

As per international reports, the Philippine government has ordered a mandatory evacuation of all Filipino workers from Iraq amid rising tensions in the region. The coast guard is also reportedly sending a vessel to the Middle East to bring its citizens back to safety. 

Iranian state media claimed that at least 80 people were killed in Iran missile strikes on bases housing US troops in Iraq. The state media also issued a statement that they cannot independently verify the reports on the number of casualties.

Singapore Airlines issued a statement saying that all their flights in and out of Europe will not be flying over the Iranian airspace. They have also stated that they are monitoring the situation closely. 

"The military had early warning of missile attack to sound the alarm so that people in harm's way were able to get to bunkers in time," a US military official told media. 

Chief of staff of the Iranian Armed Forces Major General Mohammad Baqeri reportedly said that the missile attacks today were just the first step. Baqeri also warned the US President saying that he should think about withdrawing its troops from the region and not to leave them within Iran's reach. The Revolutionary Guard Commander has confirmed that Al Asad and Erbil bases were the targets. 

He said, "The attacks were revenge for the killing of General Qassem Soleimani." Baqeri then reportedly warned the US and its regional allies against retaliating over the missile attack in Iraq.

Iraq's military said that 22 missiles were launched by Iran on two bases in Iraq housing US troops. The military confirmed that there have been no casualties on their side in the attacks. They also said that two of the 17 missiles which were targetting Ain al-Asad did not go off. 

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameini makes his first statement after Iran launched missile strikes on bases housing US troops in Iraq. 

Iranian Envoy to India, Ali Chegeni said that Tehran will welcome any peace initiative by India for de-escalating its tensions with the US, after the killing of Iranian military commander Qasem Soleimani. The Envoy in a statement said, "India usually plays very good role in (maintaining) peace in the world. At the same time, India belongs to this region. We welcome all initiatives from all countries, especially India as a good friend for us, to not allow escalation (of tensions)."

He has also reiterated that Iran does not want a war with Washington. Chegeni said, "We are not for war, looking for peace and prosperity for everybody in this region."

Akali Dal member and president of Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee, Manjinder S Sirsa tweeted on Wednesday afternoon that he hopes peace and humanity would prevail, amid rising tensions between Washington and Tehran. 

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameini made his first speech after Tehran launched missile strikes on bases housing US troops in Iraq.

In a televised speech, the Supreme Leader said that the attack against US military and coalition forces in Iraq was successful. He said, "We are content with the quality of believers in our country. This is a lesson for us. The nation of Iran is equipped today against bullies of the world." Khameini praised Soleimani for being brave, wise, and prudent. the Supreme Leader also called Soleimani a 'revolutionary'.

Iran's Supreme Leader in a televised speech said, "Last night we slapped us on the face but military action is not enough. They brought war, division, sedition, distraction, destruction of infrastructure in Iran. They have acted everywhere like this in the world." Calling for an end to US presence in the region, Ayatollah Ali Khameini said, "We should learn about our enemy, America is our enemy and you people know it. Without the will, assistance, and vote, the Islamic Republic of Iran is nothing. The modus-operandi, fighting back against the enemy should be learnt." 

The Supreme Leader in a strong statement said that the victory of Iran's revolution will be the training of their youth. He reiterated that the 'enemy' is America. 

Ina warning, Khameini said that America should withdraw all its troops from the region. Calling for unity in Iran, he said, "The attitude of US is not seasonal, it's all-weather. We need to strengthen ourselves economically, militarily, socially, politically, and in many other ways to tackle this enemy." 

Calling for an end to US presence in the region, Iran's Supreme Leader said, "Last night we slapped the face of United States of America. The corrupt presence of the US in this region should come to an end. America brought destruction to our region. They talk about negotiations but they only want to interfere. This needs to end."

The Foreign Secretary of United Kingdom Dominic Raab condemned the attacks on Iraqi military bases. He said, "e condemn this attack on Iraqi military bases hosting Coalition -including British forces. We urge Iran not to repeat these reckless and dangerous attacks, and instead to pursue urgent de-escalation."

Germany's Defence Minister also condemned Iran's military strikes on bases housing Us troops in Iraq. She also called for de-escalation saying that it is primarily upon Iran to refrain from any more retaliation against Washington. 

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani issued an open threat to the US saying that Tehran would wipe America's 'leg' out of the Middle Eastern region now that they have cut off the hands of General Soleimani. 

He said to US, "You cut (General) Soleimani's hand from his body, your foot will be cut from the region."

France's airline Air France informed on Wednesday that they have suspended flights over Iraq and Iran's airspace after a dramatic escalation between Tehran and Washington. The move comes after Singapore Airlines and India also suspended their flights over Iran, Iraq, and the Gulf airspace. 

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu voiced his full support for President Trump's actions against IRGC Soleimani. He congratulated Trump for acting boldly against the 'terrorist'. Israel, which is a strong ally of the US has also said that it is especially important to say today that Washington has no better friend than Isreal and vice versa. PM Netanyahu in a televised speech warned Tehran against any retaliation, saying that they would be hit with a crushing blow.   

Republic TV has accessed the latest visuals of the missile strikes launched by Iran on bases housing US troops in Iraq. Iran used Qiam missile to hit US facilities in Iraq. 

Iran's strategic ally, Russia, warned of a possible 'nuclear war' over the soaring tensions between Tehran and Washington, following the missile launched at Iraqi bases housing US troops. Russian lawmaker of Moscow's Upper House, Vladimir Dzhabarov, warned of an 'all-out war' in the region, over the persisting conflict. 

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East after Iran launched missile strikes on bases housing US troops in Iraq, German airline giant Lufthansa said on Wednesday that it would not fly over Iran and Iraq 'until further notice'. Several other airlines have suspended or rerouted flight operations over Iran and Iraq. 

EU foreign ministers are going to hold emergency talks on the Iran crisis on Friday to discuss what the bloc can do to de-escalate the situation. However, the bloc has limited options for action. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who will raise situation when she meets British Prime Minister Boris Johnson in London later on Wednesday said, "the use of weapons must stop" to allow space for dialogue.

A statement from the office of Iraqi Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi said that the Islamic Republic of Iran informed Iraq about the imminent missile attack on US forces. Prime Minister Adil Abdul Mahdi also said, "The missile attacks on US military and coalition forces in Iraq threatens a “devastating all-out war” in the country, the region, and the world." 

China on Wednesday urged restraint from all sides after Iran launched missiles at Iraqi bases housing US and British troops. Beijing has also said that they would play a "responsible role" in helping to defuse tensions between Tehran and Washington. 

The Ukrainian government has decided to suspend all flight operations over Iran, owing to a dramatic escalation between Tehran and Washington after Iran launched more than a dozen missiles on bases housing US and British troops in Iraq, killing 80 US soldiers. 

Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot has requested the Central government to keep a plan ready for the security of a large number of Indians in Iraq and to make arrangements for their safe return. 

The European Union on Wednesday said that they will leave no stone unturned to save the 2015 Iran Nuclear Deal in order to prevent Tehran from developing any atomic weapons. Fearing a war, EU Commission's President Ursula von der Leyen said that her foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell will continue to work to keep the nuclear agreement alive. Leyen also reiterated the need to de-escalate the situation. 

Amid spiralling US-Iran tensions, security was on Wednesday tightened outside the US Consulate in Hyderabad by the police. Security was beefed up by deploying additional personnel as a precautionary measure.

Harakat Hezbollah al-Nujaba, an Iranian backed Shi'ite paramilitary group warned US forces to "not close eyes". "Revenge for martyr Muhandis is coming at hands of Iraqis - until last soldier among you leaves," threatened the militia, which is also part of Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), whose deputy commander Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis died in a drone strike by US forces.

Australian carrier Qantas to avoid Iran and Iraq airspace until further notice and will carry fewer passengers and more fuel to remain in the air for an extra 40 to 50 minutes.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that the US martyred "a major, great Iranian commander", who was the guest of the Iraqi government and people which is against all international regulations. Speaking at Parliament session Rouhani said that the “criminal act” was aimed at sowing discord inside Iran, creating fear and division in the region. In an apparent reference to Trump’s impeachment, the Iranian President said that it is possible that the action was because of the internal issues and complications in the US and the White House.

Iranian Defence Minister Amir Hatami said that Tehran responded appropriately against the attack carried out by US forces. Hatami added that Trump turned the US into a “terrorist nation” by ordering a “terror attack” on Iran's leading official, who was guest in another country. He asserted that Iran will give proportionate response if the US retaliates.

Syrian Foreign Minister has expressed “absolute solidarity” with Iran after it launched an attack on two US military bases in Iraq. The minister said that Iran reaffirmed it right to defend itself in the light of American threats and attacks. Syria has put the blame of all the consequences on the United States for fuelling conflicts in the region.

BJP leader Subramanian Swamy claimed that the US wanted to target Hezbollah official but Soleimani was collateral damage of the attack. Swamy said that he received the information from a well-informed person in the US and predicted that the situation will de-escalate.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson supported the assassination of top Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani, holding him responsible for killing UK troops. Johnson said that Soleimani, along with Hezbollah, helped Bashar al-Assad to sustain his regime by supplying IEDs. He said that there have been no British casualties in the attack on US military bases in Iraq. The Conservative leader added that he will work with Tehran and Baghdad and is determined to guarantee safety to people of Iraq.

Iran’s Ambassador to New Delhi Dr Ali Chegeni reaffirmed that Tehran is not looking for war and the people of Iran are living peacefully with ‘brothers and sisters’ including India. Speaking to Republic TV, Dr Chegeni said that Iran doesn't want any escalation in this region and is hopeful of India playing a constructive role in the tensed situation.

The Indian government is closely monitoring the developments in the Gulf region after the situation rapidly escalated, said Union Minister V Muraleedharan. He said that the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has spoken to his counterparts in Jordan, Oman, Qatar, France and the UAE, besides Foreign Minister of Iran and the US Secretary of State.

As the situation worsened in the Middle East with concerns of a surge in oil prices, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan assured that currently there is currently no crisis and India is preparing to deal with all kinds of situations.

Amid soaring tensions in the US-Iran relations, Indian share market on Wednesday clawed back most of its lost ground at the closure. The benchmark S&P BSE Sensex had earlier dived 400 points in the early trade but finally stabilised at 40,817.74,  51.73 points, or 0.13 per cent down.

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu is set to visit Iraq on January 9 to “alleviate the escalated tension" in the aftermath of Iran’s attack on US military bases. Cavusoglu also held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif as a part of the diplomatic effort to assure peace in the vulnerable region. Yesterday, Cavusoglu had asserted that Turkey will do anything it can, to ‘reduce the cycle of violence’.

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), in an official statement, confirmed that there have been no casualties among the troops assigned for its training mission in Iraq. Due to increased security risks, NATO has suspended its training mission on the ground and will resume when the situation improves.

Poland’s ambassador to Baghdad Beata Peska has been evacuated from Iraq at Britain’s request since its mission is located in the UK embassy. Poland's Foreign Ministry said that the embassy continues to work in Baghdad even after the ambassador’s evacuation. Poland has confirmed that their troops in Iraq were not harmed in the missile strike on US military bases by Iran.

The speaker of the Iraqi parliament has called the attack on US military bases by Iran a ‘violation of Iraqi sovereignty’. Mohammed al-Halbusi condemned the attack on Iraqi soil and saying there is an urgent need to stop Iraq being turned into an arena for foreign powers to settle scores.

United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI) said that the country should not pay the price for external rivalries. The assistance mission, advising and supporting the government of Iraq on elections and human rights since 2003, added that the missile attacks by Iran on military bases in Erbil and Anbar violated Iraqi sovereignty. The mission called for urgent restraint and a resumption of dialogue saying senseless violence has predictable effects.

Cyprus has agreed to host United States troops if Washington would need to evacuate its forces from the Middle East in an emergency situation. The island, situated in the Eastern Mediterranean at a strategically significant location, would host rapid response unit of the US if needed.

US President Donald Trump will make his statement, at 9.30pm (IST), in the aftermath of Iran’s attack on US military bases in Iraq. “All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far!” Trump had tweeted after the attack.

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani made a strong statement after the retaliatory action on US military bases in Iraq, saying they ‘don't retreat in the face of America’. In a televised address, Rouhani said that the US should know that it will receive a decisive response if it commits a “crime”.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan said that the country is ready to play its role for peace but it can never again be part of any war. Khan has asked Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi to visit Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United States to meet his counterparts and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He said that Pakistan Army General Qamar Javed Bajwa will contact relevant military leaders to “convey a clear message”.

An Indian warship is currently deployed in the Gulf region to ensure the safe passage of Indian Flag Vessels transiting through. Indian Navy said that it is maintaining the presence in the region since it is committed to protecting the nation's maritime interests.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has asked all Indian operators to reroute their flights to ensure the safety of passengers in the wake of Iran’s attack on US military bases in Iraq. A senior DGCA official said that all air operators have been directed to take appropriate precautionary measures including the rerouting of their flights in view of the impending tension in the Middle East.

US President Donald Trump said that no American on Iraqi lives were lost in Iran’s attack on US military bases. In his address, Trump added that Americans should be grateful and happy as they were not harmed. The United States suffered no casualty and minimal damage was faced at military bases, said the US President.

Trump asserted that US military eliminated “terrorist” Qassem Soleimani who was responsible for worst atrocities. The US President said that Soleimani used to train terrorists including Hezbollah. “Soleimani directed the recent attacks on US personnel in Iraq and was planning new attacks on American targets. “We stopped him. He should have been terminated long ago,” said Trump.

The United States will immediately impose powerful economic sanctions until Iran changes its behaviour and abandon its nuclear ambition, said the US President. Trump lashed out at Iran saying they created hell in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. He said that Iran was given $150 billion in cash in the "defective" 2015 nuclear deal with which it created "hell in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan".

US President urged world leaders to work together to achieve peace and said that it can not prevail if until Iran wages violence in the Middle East. He asked NATO members to be much more involved in Middle East peace process. Warning Iran, Trump said, “Your campaign of terror and mayhem will not be tolerated...Our missiles are lethal and fast.”

Trump boasted that the United States is the number one producer of oil and gas in the world. “We don’t need middle east oil anymore,” said the US President. He ended his 10-minute long statement without taking any questions.