Iran has launched “tens” of missiles at two Iraq bases housing US and coalition troops following the killing of the country’s top general.
Iranian state TV described the attacks as Tehran’s revenge operation over the killing of General Qassem Soleimani. It said the missiles were fired by Tehran’s Revolutionary Guard aerospace division and the operation was named “Marytr Soleimani”.
A US government statement said: “It is clear that these missiles were launched from Iran and targeted at least two Iraqi military bases hosting US military and coalition personnel at Al Assad and Erbil. We are working on initial battle damage assessments.
“These bases have been on high alert due to indications that the Iranian regime planned to attack our forces and interests in the region. As we evaluate the situation and our response, we will take all necessary measures to protect and defend US personnel, partners, and allies in the region.”
The strikes come just hours after US defence secretary Mark Esper told a news conference: “We’re seeking a diplomatic solution – but first this will require Iran to de-escalate. It will require the regime to come to the table with the goal of preventing further bloodshed and it will require them to cease their malign activities throughout the region. The ball is in their court, what they do next will determine what happens in the subsequent moves.”
Al Asad air base, in Iraq’s western Anbar province, was first used by American forces after the 2003 US-led invasion that toppled dictator Saddam Hussein. It later saw American troops stationed there amid the fight against the Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria.
Photo Credit: Getty
