Iran has launched Operation "Martyr Soleimani," launching a missile attack in Iraq against two bases hosting American and coalition troops, including Italian soldiers. A barrage of cruise and short-range ballistic missiles launched from Iranian territory struck the al-Asad and Erbil bases, as the first retaliation for the killing of General Qassem Soleimani by the US.
According to Iranian state TV, there was also a second wave of attacks. At the moment there are no reports of victims, injuries or damage. The personnel of the Italian military contingent in Erbil gathered in a safe area and the men took refuge in special bunkers. They are all unharmed.
The Pentagon, in a statement, said that after having informed the US President Donald Trump of the facts, it is still evaluating the consequences of the offensive. Meanwhile, in Washington, the National Security Council met with the presence of Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and the number one of the Pentagon Mark Esper.
From Tehran, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps announced that “the fierce revenge” for the killing of General Soleimani had begun and said that the initial operation had been successful and that the al-Asad base, against which at least 35 missiles were reportedly launched, “has been completely destroyed”.
Iran is therefore threatening "even more devastating actions" if the US decides to respond. "If Iran is attacked on its soil," the Revolutionary Guards warn, "Dubai, Haifa and Tel Aviv will be hit in a third round of attacks by Iran." Meanwhile, oil prices are soaring, jumping 3,4% to $65, and gold is soaring, at $1.600 an ounce, its highest since 2013.
EDITORIAL TEAM
Choose the social channel you want to subscribe to