This article is from the source 'washpo' and was first published or seen on . It last changed over 40 days ago and won't be checked again for changes.

You can find the current article at its original source at https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/iran-live-updates/2020/01/07/896c70a2-30d5-11ea-9313-6cba89b1b9fb_story.html

The article has changed 36 times. There is an RSS feed of changes available.

Version 14 Version 15
Live updates: Iran prepares to bury Soleimani after deadly stampede Live updates: As Iran prepares to bury Soleimani, Iraq expecting U.S. troop withdrawal
(32 minutes later)
As U.S. officials defended President Trump’s decision to kill Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad, Iranian leaders on Tuesday stepped up calls for revenge against the United States.As U.S. officials defended President Trump’s decision to kill Iranian commander Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad, Iranian leaders on Tuesday stepped up calls for revenge against the United States.
The calls for retaliation came as Iranian authorities prepared to bury Soleimani in his hometown in Kerman, a city in the southeast of the country. Early on Tuesday, authorities were forced to suspend the burial proceedings after a deadly stampede killed scores of mourners.The calls for retaliation came as Iranian authorities prepared to bury Soleimani in his hometown in Kerman, a city in the southeast of the country. Early on Tuesday, authorities were forced to suspend the burial proceedings after a deadly stampede killed scores of mourners.
Here’s what we know so far:Here’s what we know so far:
● Iranian state news agencies reported that at least 50 people died and more than 200 were injured in a stampede during funeral ceremonies in Soleimani’s hometown.● Iranian state news agencies reported that at least 50 people died and more than 200 were injured in a stampede during funeral ceremonies in Soleimani’s hometown.
● Security council head Ali Shamkhani said 13 scenarios for retaliation are being considered, and specifically mentioned that U.S. bases in the region were under surveillance.● Security council head Ali Shamkhani said 13 scenarios for retaliation are being considered, and specifically mentioned that U.S. bases in the region were under surveillance.
● Iran’s foreign minister said the United States denied him a visa to attend a United Nations meeting in New York.● Iran’s foreign minister said the United States denied him a visa to attend a United Nations meeting in New York.
● The Trump administration is drawing up potential sanctions against Iraq if the country’s leaders go through with plans to order the expulsion of U.S. troops for killing Soleimani on Iraqi soil.● The Trump administration is drawing up potential sanctions against Iraq if the country’s leaders go through with plans to order the expulsion of U.S. troops for killing Soleimani on Iraqi soil.
● Iraq’s prime minister is interpreting a letter from the U.S. military as a “withdrawal announcement,” even as Pentagon officials describe its sharing as a mistake, according to Iraqi officials.● Iraq’s prime minister is interpreting a letter from the U.S. military as a “withdrawal announcement,” even as Pentagon officials describe its sharing as a mistake, according to Iraqi officials.
TORONTO — Canada will temporarily move some of its military personnel from Iraq to Kuwait in the coming days, the country’s chief of the defense staff said Tuesday.
“Simply put, we are doing this to ensure their safety and security,” said Jonathan Vance in a letter to Canadians that the Canadian Forces shared on Twitter.
The announcement came after the NATO mission and U.S.-led international coalition fighting the Islamic State temporarily suspended their missions in Iraq. Approximately 500 Canadians have been deployed to support both missions.
“Despite the operational pause in Iraq, our mission in the Middle East carries on with multiple other operations in the region,” Vance said. “Naturally, the work we are doing on these missions, and the future of operations in Iraq, remain conditional on maintaining a sufficiently secure and productive operational environment.”
WASHIINGTON — President Trump discussed heightened U.S.-Iranian tensions with a senior Saudi official at the White House this week, the Saudi government said Tuesday, in the wake of the Trump administration’s targeting of Soleimani.WASHIINGTON — President Trump discussed heightened U.S.-Iranian tensions with a senior Saudi official at the White House this week, the Saudi government said Tuesday, in the wake of the Trump administration’s targeting of Soleimani.
In a brief visit to Washington on Monday, Prince Khalid bin Salman, the former Saudi ambassador to the United States who currently serves as deputy defense minister, met with Trump, national security adviser Robert O’Brien, Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the Saudi government said in a statement.In a brief visit to Washington on Monday, Prince Khalid bin Salman, the former Saudi ambassador to the United States who currently serves as deputy defense minister, met with Trump, national security adviser Robert O’Brien, Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the Saudi government said in a statement.
The talks addressed “the joint efforts to reduce tensions and avoid escalations that could further destabilize the region in light of the Iranian regime’s provocations and destabilizing activities,” the statement said.The talks addressed “the joint efforts to reduce tensions and avoid escalations that could further destabilize the region in light of the Iranian regime’s provocations and destabilizing activities,” the statement said.
State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Pompeo, in his meeting with the Saudi prince, “underscored that the United States does not seek war with Iran and remains committed to de-escalation.”State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus said Pompeo, in his meeting with the Saudi prince, “underscored that the United States does not seek war with Iran and remains committed to de-escalation.”
In recent months, the Pentagon has dispatched additional troops and military assets to Saudi Arabia in the wake of an attack on Saudi oil facilities that U.S. and Saudi officials say was conducted by Iran. The kingdom is a key U.S. ally in the Middle East.In recent months, the Pentagon has dispatched additional troops and military assets to Saudi Arabia in the wake of an attack on Saudi oil facilities that U.S. and Saudi officials say was conducted by Iran. The kingdom is a key U.S. ally in the Middle East.
ISTANBUL — The funeral for Soleimani resumed Tuesday evening after a stampede among mourners killed at least 50 people earlier in the day.ISTANBUL — The funeral for Soleimani resumed Tuesday evening after a stampede among mourners killed at least 50 people earlier in the day.
Iranian news outlets reported that Soleimani’s remains reached the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Kerman. The procession was halted because of overcrowding and the mourners’ deaths.Iranian news outlets reported that Soleimani’s remains reached the Martyrs’ Cemetery in Kerman. The procession was halted because of overcrowding and the mourners’ deaths.
“The preparations for burial are now in process,” the state-affiliated Iranian Students’ News Agency reported.“The preparations for burial are now in process,” the state-affiliated Iranian Students’ News Agency reported.
The graveyard in Kerman, a city of about half a million people, is in a well-manicured lot near the teal-domed Saheb Zaman mosque. Earlier Tuesday, as mourners gathered to march to the site, the crowd surged near Azadi Square. In the ensuing panic, 50 people were killed and 200 injured.The graveyard in Kerman, a city of about half a million people, is in a well-manicured lot near the teal-domed Saheb Zaman mosque. Earlier Tuesday, as mourners gathered to march to the site, the crowd surged near Azadi Square. In the ensuing panic, 50 people were killed and 200 injured.
“Today, I think that there are more than one million people here. The city was definitely not prepared for such a crowd,” a local resident, Morteza, told BBC Persian.“Today, I think that there are more than one million people here. The city was definitely not prepared for such a crowd,” a local resident, Morteza, told BBC Persian.
In Yazd, a city northwest of Kerman, residents said schools were ordered closed and the government sent buses to ferry teachers to the funeral.In Yazd, a city northwest of Kerman, residents said schools were ordered closed and the government sent buses to ferry teachers to the funeral.
Secretary of State Pompeo said Tuesday that the Trump administration “got it right” when it launched the airstrike that killed Soleimani last week, raising the risk of reprisal attacks on U.S. targets.Secretary of State Pompeo said Tuesday that the Trump administration “got it right” when it launched the airstrike that killed Soleimani last week, raising the risk of reprisal attacks on U.S. targets.
“It was the right decision,” Pompeo said at a news conference at the State Department. “We got it right. The president had an entirely legal, appropriate and a basis [for] a decision that fit perfectly within our strategy of how to counter the threat, the malign activity from Iran.”“It was the right decision,” Pompeo said at a news conference at the State Department. “We got it right. The president had an entirely legal, appropriate and a basis [for] a decision that fit perfectly within our strategy of how to counter the threat, the malign activity from Iran.”
Pompeo said he was confident that President Trump’s decision to target Soleimani was fully vetted by White House lawyers and that future actions would be legal.Pompeo said he was confident that President Trump’s decision to target Soleimani was fully vetted by White House lawyers and that future actions would be legal.
Pompeo grew heated when asked about the growing criticism of Trump’s threat to strike Iranian cultural sites if Iran retaliates, a potential war crime.Pompeo grew heated when asked about the growing criticism of Trump’s threat to strike Iranian cultural sites if Iran retaliates, a potential war crime.
“Every action we take will be consistent with the international rule of law,” he said.“Every action we take will be consistent with the international rule of law,” he said.
“Let me tell you who has done damage to the Persian culture. It’s not the United States of America. It’s the ayatollah.”“Let me tell you who has done damage to the Persian culture. It’s not the United States of America. It’s the ayatollah.”
Pompeo declined to confirm Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif’s assertion that he had been denied a visa to come to New York for a U.N. Security Council meeting Thursday. Under a 1947 agreement, the United States — as the nation hosting the U.N. headquarters — must issue visas to diplomats on U.N. business, except in cases of security, terrorism and foreign-policy concerns.Pompeo declined to confirm Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif’s assertion that he had been denied a visa to come to New York for a U.N. Security Council meeting Thursday. Under a 1947 agreement, the United States — as the nation hosting the U.N. headquarters — must issue visas to diplomats on U.N. business, except in cases of security, terrorism and foreign-policy concerns.
“We will always comply with our obligations under the U.N. requirements and the headquarters agreement, and we will do so in this particular instance,” Pompeo said.“We will always comply with our obligations under the U.N. requirements and the headquarters agreement, and we will do so in this particular instance,” Pompeo said.
But he rejected Zarif’s assertion that Soleimani was in Baghdad on a diplomatic mission.But he rejected Zarif’s assertion that Soleimani was in Baghdad on a diplomatic mission.
“Does anybody in here believe that?” he asked sarcastically. “Is there any history that would indicate that it was remotely possible that this kind gentleman, this diplomat of great order, Qasem Soleimani, had traveled to Baghdad for the idea of conducting a peace mission? We know that wasn’t true. We not only know the history, we know in that moment that was not true. Zarif is a propagandist of the first order.”“Does anybody in here believe that?” he asked sarcastically. “Is there any history that would indicate that it was remotely possible that this kind gentleman, this diplomat of great order, Qasem Soleimani, had traveled to Baghdad for the idea of conducting a peace mission? We know that wasn’t true. We not only know the history, we know in that moment that was not true. Zarif is a propagandist of the first order.”
BAGHDAD — Iraq’s prime minister is interpreting Monday night’s letter from the U.S. military as a “withdrawal announcement,” even as Pentagon officials describe its sharing as a mistake.BAGHDAD — Iraq’s prime minister is interpreting Monday night’s letter from the U.S. military as a “withdrawal announcement,” even as Pentagon officials describe its sharing as a mistake.
It is unclear how the letter — informing the Iraqi government that troops would be “repositioning” — came to be shared with the country’s premier, Adel Abdul Mahdi. Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters Monday that it was an unsigned planning draft discussing new deployments, and “should not have been released.”It is unclear how the letter — informing the Iraqi government that troops would be “repositioning” — came to be shared with the country’s premier, Adel Abdul Mahdi. Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told reporters Monday that it was an unsigned planning draft discussing new deployments, and “should not have been released.”
But according to senior officials in the Iraqi prime minister’s office, Milley’s comments are not being officially recognized, and the Iraqi government will now request a withdrawal timetable from Washington.But according to senior officials in the Iraqi prime minister’s office, Milley’s comments are not being officially recognized, and the Iraqi government will now request a withdrawal timetable from Washington.
“We don’t deal with statements [made] in the media,” said a senior Iraqi official, referring to Milley’s comments.“We don’t deal with statements [made] in the media,” said a senior Iraqi official, referring to Milley’s comments.
“As a state, we deal with the official letters that we receive, and we will act in accordance with this letter,” said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak with the media. “The prime minister said that there is no way to organize Iraq stably without the withdrawal of foreign forces.”“As a state, we deal with the official letters that we receive, and we will act in accordance with this letter,” said the official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak with the media. “The prime minister said that there is no way to organize Iraq stably without the withdrawal of foreign forces.”
His account was confirmed by a second official.His account was confirmed by a second official.
According to the prime minister’s office, the letter had to be delivered twice because the Arabic translation in an initial version was identified by Abdul Mahdi as being inaccurate when read side-by-side with the English text. He sent it back, the officials said, and a second translation was returned shortly afterward.According to the prime minister’s office, the letter had to be delivered twice because the Arabic translation in an initial version was identified by Abdul Mahdi as being inaccurate when read side-by-side with the English text. He sent it back, the officials said, and a second translation was returned shortly afterward.
“We will tell the U.S. to put in place a timeline to implement this withdrawal. Of course it’s not going to happen within days or weeks, it will take a while, so of course coordination will continue,” said the first official. “We won against ISIS. Having them [the Americans] here now complicates things more.”“We will tell the U.S. to put in place a timeline to implement this withdrawal. Of course it’s not going to happen within days or weeks, it will take a while, so of course coordination will continue,” said the first official. “We won against ISIS. Having them [the Americans] here now complicates things more.”
RIO DE JANEIRO — While nearly every U.S. ally has declined to support President Trump’s order to kill Soleimani, the U.S. leader has found support in one surprising location: Brazil.RIO DE JANEIRO — While nearly every U.S. ally has declined to support President Trump’s order to kill Soleimani, the U.S. leader has found support in one surprising location: Brazil.
Shortly after Soleimani’s death was announced, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has made strengthening ties with Trump the fulcrum of his foreign policy, said Brazil stood with “any country in the world in the fight against terrorism.” The comments were then affirmed by the country’s Foreign Ministry, which said Brazil supports “the fight against the scourge of terrorism,” echoing how U.S. officials have characterized the strike against Soleimani.Shortly after Soleimani’s death was announced, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has made strengthening ties with Trump the fulcrum of his foreign policy, said Brazil stood with “any country in the world in the fight against terrorism.” The comments were then affirmed by the country’s Foreign Ministry, which said Brazil supports “the fight against the scourge of terrorism,” echoing how U.S. officials have characterized the strike against Soleimani.
Then on Monday, even as staunch allies distanced themselves from the strike, Bolsonaro doubled down, saying: “We don’t accept terrorism.”Then on Monday, even as staunch allies distanced themselves from the strike, Bolsonaro doubled down, saying: “We don’t accept terrorism.”
The statements reflect how completely Bolsonaro has remade foreign policy in Brazil, which was once allied with socialist countries from Cuba to Venezuela. Those days are now gone. Bolsonaro and his allies, who view geopolitics as ideological warfare between the right and left, have pulled closer to the United States — disavowing Venezuela, forcing out Cuban doctors and, now, backing Trump on Iran.The statements reflect how completely Bolsonaro has remade foreign policy in Brazil, which was once allied with socialist countries from Cuba to Venezuela. Those days are now gone. Bolsonaro and his allies, who view geopolitics as ideological warfare between the right and left, have pulled closer to the United States — disavowing Venezuela, forcing out Cuban doctors and, now, backing Trump on Iran.
It does so at its own risk. Trump has not been an reliable ally to Bolsonaro. And big money is at stake, with Brazil exporting more than $2 billion worth of goods to Iran.It does so at its own risk. Trump has not been an reliable ally to Bolsonaro. And big money is at stake, with Brazil exporting more than $2 billion worth of goods to Iran.
“This isn’t a game for Brazil to enter,” the newspaper O Globo cautioned Tuesday.“This isn’t a game for Brazil to enter,” the newspaper O Globo cautioned Tuesday.
WASHINGTON — White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham said the president is being “briefed all the time” on Iran and national security matters.WASHINGTON — White House press secretary Stephanie Grisham said the president is being “briefed all the time” on Iran and national security matters.
“He’s on top of everything. The country should feel good this president is not going to let anything happen to anyone,” she said during an appearance on Fox News.“He’s on top of everything. The country should feel good this president is not going to let anything happen to anyone,” she said during an appearance on Fox News.
“We saved lives here,” she added.“We saved lives here,” she added.
Grisham also said the fact that Trump did not order the attack earlier in his presidency was a show of his restraint.Grisham also said the fact that Trump did not order the attack earlier in his presidency was a show of his restraint.
“For three years now, he’s been very careful, which I think should show this was an imminent danger to some Americans. That is why he acted so decisively,” she said. “He’s very, very careful and very thoughtful, and he weighs all of his options very carefully based on intel.”“For three years now, he’s been very careful, which I think should show this was an imminent danger to some Americans. That is why he acted so decisively,” she said. “He’s very, very careful and very thoughtful, and he weighs all of his options very carefully based on intel.”
She refused to detail the intelligence that led to the U.S. airstrike, saying that members of Congress will be briefed Wednesday but that some information cannot be made public because it is too sensitive.She refused to detail the intelligence that led to the U.S. airstrike, saying that members of Congress will be briefed Wednesday but that some information cannot be made public because it is too sensitive.
MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in Syria on Tuesday with President Bashar al-Assad, the Kremlin spokesman said, with the region nervously awaiting the next possible step in the U.S.-Iran showdown.MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin held talks in Syria on Tuesday with President Bashar al-Assad, the Kremlin spokesman said, with the region nervously awaiting the next possible step in the U.S.-Iran showdown.
Putin’s trip — which was not announced in advance — was his first since 2017 to Syria, Moscow’s main Middle East ally. Syria also has close ties to Iran.Putin’s trip — which was not announced in advance — was his first since 2017 to Syria, Moscow’s main Middle East ally. Syria also has close ties to Iran.
The meeting comes amid deepening tensions in the region in the wake of Soleimani’s killing. Iran has vowed to strike back.The meeting comes amid deepening tensions in the region in the wake of Soleimani’s killing. Iran has vowed to strike back.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not specify that Iran came up in the talks between Putin and Assad. But he noted the presence of Russian forces in Syria, dispatched in 2015 to provide Assad critical help to turn the tide in the country’s civil war.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov did not specify that Iran came up in the talks between Putin and Assad. But he noted the presence of Russian forces in Syria, dispatched in 2015 to provide Assad critical help to turn the tide in the country’s civil war.
“The president of Syria expressed his gratitude to Russia and the Russian military for assistance with combating terrorism and rebuilding peaceful life in Syria,” Peskov said, according to the Russian news agency Interfax.“The president of Syria expressed his gratitude to Russia and the Russian military for assistance with combating terrorism and rebuilding peaceful life in Syria,” Peskov said, according to the Russian news agency Interfax.
Putin also visited Russian troops based in Damascus.Putin also visited Russian troops based in Damascus.
WASHINGTON — The bipartisan group of senators and House members known as the“Gang of Eight” will receive a briefing on the killing of Soleimani at 4 p.m. Tuesday from CIA Director Gina Haspel, National Security Agency Director Paul M. Nakasone and Joseph Maguire, acting director of national intelligence, according to two people familiar with the matter.WASHINGTON — The bipartisan group of senators and House members known as the“Gang of Eight” will receive a briefing on the killing of Soleimani at 4 p.m. Tuesday from CIA Director Gina Haspel, National Security Agency Director Paul M. Nakasone and Joseph Maguire, acting director of national intelligence, according to two people familiar with the matter.
Presidents typically inform the “Gang of Eight” — the House speaker and minority leader, the Senate majority and minority leaders, and the chairmen and ranking members of the House and Senate intelligence committees — on high-level military operations.Presidents typically inform the “Gang of Eight” — the House speaker and minority leader, the Senate majority and minority leaders, and the chairmen and ranking members of the House and Senate intelligence committees — on high-level military operations.
However, top Democratic leaders in Congress have said that they were not informed in advance about the strike.However, top Democratic leaders in Congress have said that they were not informed in advance about the strike.
WASHINGTON — White House national security adviser O’Brien said Tuesday that the State Department may have refused to give Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif a visa to attend a United Nations Security Council meeting this week because the timing was not right.WASHINGTON — White House national security adviser O’Brien said Tuesday that the State Department may have refused to give Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif a visa to attend a United Nations Security Council meeting this week because the timing was not right.
“I don’t think Secretary [Mike] Pompeo thought that this was the right time for Mr. Zarif to come to the United States,” O’Brien told “Fox & Friends” on Tuesday morning.“I don’t think Secretary [Mike] Pompeo thought that this was the right time for Mr. Zarif to come to the United States,” O’Brien told “Fox & Friends” on Tuesday morning.
Zarif told “CBS This Morning” that Pompeo told U.N. Secretary General António Guterres of the U.S. decision. He in turn explained to Zarif “they didn’t have time to review my request,” Zarif said.Zarif told “CBS This Morning” that Pompeo told U.N. Secretary General António Guterres of the U.S. decision. He in turn explained to Zarif “they didn’t have time to review my request,” Zarif said.
Under a 1947 agreement, the United States is required as the host country of the U.N. headquarters to allow entry to foreign diplomats traveling on U.N. business. Zarif had planned to attend a Security Council meeting on Thursday.Under a 1947 agreement, the United States is required as the host country of the U.N. headquarters to allow entry to foreign diplomats traveling on U.N. business. Zarif had planned to attend a Security Council meeting on Thursday.
The State Department, which had no immediate comment on Zarif’s visa, has granted Zarif visas only reluctantly in the past. During the annual General Assembly meeting in September, visas for Zarif and his traveling party were delayed until the last minute, and they were confined to a few blocks in Manhattan between the U.N. headquarters and the offices of the Iranian mission to the United Nations.The State Department, which had no immediate comment on Zarif’s visa, has granted Zarif visas only reluctantly in the past. During the annual General Assembly meeting in September, visas for Zarif and his traveling party were delayed until the last minute, and they were confined to a few blocks in Manhattan between the U.N. headquarters and the offices of the Iranian mission to the United Nations.
The United States argues that it can make exceptions to the headquarters agreement with the United Nations for reasons of “security, terrorism and foreign policy.” But as the United States and Iran are threatening each other with military reprisals after the U.S. airstrike that killed Suleimani last week, the visa rejection denies Zarif a platform for outlining Tehran’s view of the conflict.The United States argues that it can make exceptions to the headquarters agreement with the United Nations for reasons of “security, terrorism and foreign policy.” But as the United States and Iran are threatening each other with military reprisals after the U.S. airstrike that killed Suleimani last week, the visa rejection denies Zarif a platform for outlining Tehran’s view of the conflict.
In addition to speaking at the Security Council, Zarif usually conducts interviews with U.S. news outlets, a practice that has irritated Pompeo. He has complained often about the practice and the fact he never has the chance to be interviewed by Iranian state-run media. He has said U.S. reporters should refrain from giving Zarif a platform for propaganda.In addition to speaking at the Security Council, Zarif usually conducts interviews with U.S. news outlets, a practice that has irritated Pompeo. He has complained often about the practice and the fact he never has the chance to be interviewed by Iranian state-run media. He has said U.S. reporters should refrain from giving Zarif a platform for propaganda.
ISTANBUL — The death toll from a stampede at the funeral of Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force, rose to 50 Tuesday as officials in Kerman province grappled with the growing influx of casualties.ISTANBUL — The death toll from a stampede at the funeral of Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, commander of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard’s Quds Force, rose to 50 Tuesday as officials in Kerman province grappled with the growing influx of casualties.
The panic along the route leading to Soleimani’s burial place also left more than 200 people injured, health officials said. Authorities postponed the rest of the burial ceremony due to overcrowding and the mounting death toll.The panic along the route leading to Soleimani’s burial place also left more than 200 people injured, health officials said. Authorities postponed the rest of the burial ceremony due to overcrowding and the mounting death toll.
The head of Iran’s emergency services, Pirhossein Koulivand, said the stampede occurred at Azadi Square in Kerman city, home to some half a million people and the birthplace of Soleimani. The majority of the victims were men, according Kerman’s head of forensics, Abbas Amian.The head of Iran’s emergency services, Pirhossein Koulivand, said the stampede occurred at Azadi Square in Kerman city, home to some half a million people and the birthplace of Soleimani. The majority of the victims were men, according Kerman’s head of forensics, Abbas Amian.
Eyewitnesses, speaking to BBC’s Persian-language service, described masses of people crammed into a single street leading to the square.Eyewitnesses, speaking to BBC’s Persian-language service, described masses of people crammed into a single street leading to the square.
“The route that they chose was too narrow for this crowd. This is something that could have been prevented,” said one Kerman resident, who was not named.“The route that they chose was too narrow for this crowd. This is something that could have been prevented,” said one Kerman resident, who was not named.
“The surrounding alleyways were also blocked for different reasons,” he said. “There was no way to go back or to escape through a side street.”“The surrounding alleyways were also blocked for different reasons,” he said. “There was no way to go back or to escape through a side street.”
A video published on the Shoma news website showed chaotic scenes of people lying either dead or unconscious on the ground, with fellow mourners scrambling to help the injured. Many appeared lifeless, the color drained from their faces.A video published on the Shoma news website showed chaotic scenes of people lying either dead or unconscious on the ground, with fellow mourners scrambling to help the injured. Many appeared lifeless, the color drained from their faces.
“Don’t panic!” one person shouted. Another could be heard calling for water.“Don’t panic!” one person shouted. Another could be heard calling for water.
“Don’t give them water,” another man said. “Just splash a little bit on their faces.”“Don’t give them water,” another man said. “Just splash a little bit on their faces.”
BERLIN — British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has warned that militants “would be the only winners” of a full-blown war as a result of U.S.-Iran tensions. Raab singled out the Islamic State as having most to gain.BERLIN — British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has warned that militants “would be the only winners” of a full-blown war as a result of U.S.-Iran tensions. Raab singled out the Islamic State as having most to gain.
The U.S.-led international coalition fighting the Islamic State has suspended its operations over safety concerns, even though the move is so far only temporary.The U.S.-led international coalition fighting the Islamic State has suspended its operations over safety concerns, even though the move is so far only temporary.
Boris Johnson will not back Trump’s threat of targeting Iran’s cultural sitesBoris Johnson will not back Trump’s threat of targeting Iran’s cultural sites
Raab’s warning came after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement, which called on “all parties to exercise utmost restraint and responsibility.”Raab’s warning came after British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement, which called on “all parties to exercise utmost restraint and responsibility.”
Raab reiterated on Tuesday that “if we see a full-blown war it would be very damaging.”Raab reiterated on Tuesday that “if we see a full-blown war it would be very damaging.”
As The Post’s William Booth and Karla Adam reported on Monday, Johnson’s government is trying to perform a balancing act between living up to Britain’s role as a close ally of the United States and widespread disagreement in Britain and across Europe with President Trump’s recent moves on Iran.As The Post’s William Booth and Karla Adam reported on Monday, Johnson’s government is trying to perform a balancing act between living up to Britain’s role as a close ally of the United States and widespread disagreement in Britain and across Europe with President Trump’s recent moves on Iran.
ISTANBUL — The U.S. drone strike that killed Soleimani in Iraq last week was an act of “state terrorism,” Iran’s foreign minister said Tuesday.ISTANBUL — The U.S. drone strike that killed Soleimani in Iraq last week was an act of “state terrorism,” Iran’s foreign minister said Tuesday.
In an interview with CNN, Mohammad Javad Zarif criticized President Trump and what he said was the U.S. leader’s lack of respect for international law.In an interview with CNN, Mohammad Javad Zarif criticized President Trump and what he said was the U.S. leader’s lack of respect for international law.
The United States targeted the Iranian Quds Force commander as he left the Baghdad airport in a two-vehicle convoyearly Friday. The strike against a senior Iranian official was a major escalation in what had been a simmering conflict between the United States and Iran.The United States targeted the Iranian Quds Force commander as he left the Baghdad airport in a two-vehicle convoyearly Friday. The strike against a senior Iranian official was a major escalation in what had been a simmering conflict between the United States and Iran.
“This is an act of aggression against Iran, and amounts to an armed attack against Iran and we will respond,” Zarif said.“This is an act of aggression against Iran, and amounts to an armed attack against Iran and we will respond,” Zarif said.
“But we will respond proportionally, not disproportionally. We will respond lawfully,” he continued. “We are not lawless people like President Trump.”“But we will respond proportionally, not disproportionally. We will respond lawfully,” he continued. “We are not lawless people like President Trump.”
Responding to Iran’s pledge to retaliate, Trump threatened Saturday to target Iranian cultural sites. The United Nations’ top cultural and scientific body, UNESCO, has 22 Iranian cultural sites on its world heritage list.Responding to Iran’s pledge to retaliate, Trump threatened Saturday to target Iranian cultural sites. The United Nations’ top cultural and scientific body, UNESCO, has 22 Iranian cultural sites on its world heritage list.
Trump “has no respect for international law and is prepared to commit war crimes — attacking cultural sites is a war crime,” said Zarif, who was educated in the United States.Trump “has no respect for international law and is prepared to commit war crimes — attacking cultural sites is a war crime,” said Zarif, who was educated in the United States.
ISTANBUL — The burial of Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, the slain commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, was postponed Tuesday due to severe overcrowding and a deadly stampede, officials said.ISTANBUL — The burial of Maj. Gen. Qasem Soleimani, the slain commander of Iran’s elite Quds Force, was postponed Tuesday due to severe overcrowding and a deadly stampede, officials said.
A spokesman for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a powerful security organ that includes the Quds Force, said that funerals in Soleimani’s hometown, Kerman, were suspended and would be held at a later date. His remarks were carried by the Iranian Students’ News Agency (ISNA).A spokesman for the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, a powerful security organ that includes the Quds Force, said that funerals in Soleimani’s hometown, Kerman, were suspended and would be held at a later date. His remarks were carried by the Iranian Students’ News Agency (ISNA).
A local official in Kerman, Majid Saeedi, said that emergency responders, the Iranian Red Crescent Society and hospitals in surrounding towns were on alert to receive casualties.A local official in Kerman, Majid Saeedi, said that emergency responders, the Iranian Red Crescent Society and hospitals in surrounding towns were on alert to receive casualties.
Soleimani, a divisive but popular figure, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad last week. His funeral procession started Saturday in the Iraqi capital and included stops in the shrine cities of Karbala and Najaf, as well as in Ahvaz, Mashhad, Tehran, Qom and Kerman in Iran.Soleimani, a divisive but popular figure, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad last week. His funeral procession started Saturday in the Iraqi capital and included stops in the shrine cities of Karbala and Najaf, as well as in Ahvaz, Mashhad, Tehran, Qom and Kerman in Iran.
Earlier Tuesday, throngs of supporters filled the streets of Kerman, home to about half a million people, to accompany the commander’s flag-draped coffin to the local cemetery.Earlier Tuesday, throngs of supporters filled the streets of Kerman, home to about half a million people, to accompany the commander’s flag-draped coffin to the local cemetery.
As the crowds grew, a crush of people trampled their fellow mourners.As the crowds grew, a crush of people trampled their fellow mourners.
Because of the traffic, the vehicle carrying Soleimani’s body was stopped in the street leading to the cemetery, ISNA quoted the head of the commander’s funeral committee, Mehdi Sadafi, as saying.Because of the traffic, the vehicle carrying Soleimani’s body was stopped in the street leading to the cemetery, ISNA quoted the head of the commander’s funeral committee, Mehdi Sadafi, as saying.
“The Iranian people have done their duty today, and the vast ocean of millions of people attending the funeral have confirmed this,” Revolutionary Guard spokesman Ramadan Sharif said, ISNA reported.“The Iranian people have done their duty today, and the vast ocean of millions of people attending the funeral have confirmed this,” Revolutionary Guard spokesman Ramadan Sharif said, ISNA reported.
DUBAI — The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an alert advising U.S. commercial ships to “exercise caution” when passing through waters near Iran, citing the threat from “Iran and its proxies.”DUBAI — The U.S. Department of Transportation issued an alert advising U.S. commercial ships to “exercise caution” when passing through waters near Iran, citing the threat from “Iran and its proxies.”
The alert listed the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and the entire Indian Ocean as areas in which to be cautious.The alert listed the Red Sea, the Arabian Sea, the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and the entire Indian Ocean as areas in which to be cautious.
After a U.S. airstrike killed a top Iranian commander early Jan. 3, the alert said, “the Iranian response to this action, if any, is unknown, but there remains the possibility of Iranian action against U.S. maritime interests in the region.”After a U.S. airstrike killed a top Iranian commander early Jan. 3, the alert said, “the Iranian response to this action, if any, is unknown, but there remains the possibility of Iranian action against U.S. maritime interests in the region.”
A series of incidents occurred during the summer in the narrow waters between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula through which pass vast amounts of the world’s oil. The incidents included attacks on six commercial vessels and the seizure of three tankers.A series of incidents occurred during the summer in the narrow waters between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula through which pass vast amounts of the world’s oil. The incidents included attacks on six commercial vessels and the seizure of three tankers.
ISTANBUL — Dozens of people have been killed in a stampede at the funeral for Soleimani in his hometown of Kerman, the Associated Press reported, quoting state television.ISTANBUL — Dozens of people have been killed in a stampede at the funeral for Soleimani in his hometown of Kerman, the Associated Press reported, quoting state television.
Head of emergency services Pirhossein Koulivand told the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting that the stampede was caused by overcrowding. Videos posted on social media showed mourners wailing and attempting to revive fellow marchers who had fallen to the ground.Head of emergency services Pirhossein Koulivand told the state-run Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting that the stampede was caused by overcrowding. Videos posted on social media showed mourners wailing and attempting to revive fellow marchers who had fallen to the ground.
Earlier Tuesday, footage on state television showed a sea of mourners in the city of roughly 530,000 people.Earlier Tuesday, footage on state television showed a sea of mourners in the city of roughly 530,000 people.
BERLIN — Germany has temporarily moved all its military personnel stationed in non-Kurdish Iraqi territory to either Jordan or Kuwait, a German military spokesman said Tuesday.BERLIN — Germany has temporarily moved all its military personnel stationed in non-Kurdish Iraqi territory to either Jordan or Kuwait, a German military spokesman said Tuesday.
The announcement came after the U.S.-led international coalition fighting the Islamic State suspended its operations over safety concerns, including the training mission German service members were involved in.The announcement came after the U.S.-led international coalition fighting the Islamic State suspended its operations over safety concerns, including the training mission German service members were involved in.
A German military spokesman said the troops that were flown out of the country had been scheduled to leave even before tensions between the United States and Iran escalated, as their rotation was coming to an end.A German military spokesman said the troops that were flown out of the country had been scheduled to leave even before tensions between the United States and Iran escalated, as their rotation was coming to an end.
Due to the heightened tensions, they will not be replaced until further notice. German parliamentary representatives were informed about the decision on Monday.Due to the heightened tensions, they will not be replaced until further notice. German parliamentary representatives were informed about the decision on Monday.
Where U.S. troops are in the Middle East and Afghanistan, visualizedWhere U.S. troops are in the Middle East and Afghanistan, visualized
A total of 35 German service members in the district of Taji and in Baghdad were affected by the order to leave Iraq, which was completed by Tuesday morning. About 110 more German military members are still stationed in Irbil, the regional capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, the spokesman said.A total of 35 German service members in the district of Taji and in Baghdad were affected by the order to leave Iraq, which was completed by Tuesday morning. About 110 more German military members are still stationed in Irbil, the regional capital of Iraqi Kurdistan, the spokesman said.
The German government said it remains open to returning military personnel to Baghdad and other Iraqi bases. “In principle, we stand by the usefulness of this mission,” a military spokesman said. “The fight against the Islamic State is not over and the many achievements we have made need to be secured. The decisive factor will now be the Iraqi government,” he said.The German government said it remains open to returning military personnel to Baghdad and other Iraqi bases. “In principle, we stand by the usefulness of this mission,” a military spokesman said. “The fight against the Islamic State is not over and the many achievements we have made need to be secured. The decisive factor will now be the Iraqi government,” he said.
The popular general, who engineered Tehran’s project building proxy forces across the Middle East, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad last week.The popular general, who engineered Tehran’s project building proxy forces across the Middle East, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad last week.
His funeral procession started in Baghdad Saturday and continued to the Iraqi Shiite shrine cities of Karbala and Najaf, as well as the Iranian cities of Ahvaz, Mashhad, Tehran and Qom.His funeral procession started in Baghdad Saturday and continued to the Iraqi Shiite shrine cities of Karbala and Najaf, as well as the Iranian cities of Ahvaz, Mashhad, Tehran and Qom.
Kerman, in southeastern Iran, is where the 62-year-old commander was born. Aerial footage broadcast on Iranian state television showed a sea of mourners dressed in black and waving red flags — signifying blood unjustly spilled — as they filled a major artery in the city. Some threw flowers at other items at the funeral cortège as it passed through the crowds.Kerman, in southeastern Iran, is where the 62-year-old commander was born. Aerial footage broadcast on Iranian state television showed a sea of mourners dressed in black and waving red flags — signifying blood unjustly spilled — as they filled a major artery in the city. Some threw flowers at other items at the funeral cortège as it passed through the crowds.
The masses of mourners in Kerman reflected similar sized crowds in other Iranian cities.The masses of mourners in Kerman reflected similar sized crowds in other Iranian cities.
On Monday in Tehran, hundreds of thousands of people turned out in the city in a huge display of grief and anger.On Monday in Tehran, hundreds of thousands of people turned out in the city in a huge display of grief and anger.
“I went to the funeral because it was important for me to show that I value someone who has sacrificed himself and his family,” said Narges, 45, a housewife in Tehran. She spoke on the condition that her full name not be used so she could discuss freely her views of the commander.“I went to the funeral because it was important for me to show that I value someone who has sacrificed himself and his family,” said Narges, 45, a housewife in Tehran. She spoke on the condition that her full name not be used so she could discuss freely her views of the commander.
At the same time, she said: “Everyone is talking about revenge, but it is important to have a more measured reaction — something that is equal to what they [the Americans] did.”At the same time, she said: “Everyone is talking about revenge, but it is important to have a more measured reaction — something that is equal to what they [the Americans] did.”
DUBAI — A top Iranian security official said the country has drawn up 13 scenarios to retaliate for the U.S. slaying of a prominent military commander.DUBAI — A top Iranian security official said the country has drawn up 13 scenarios to retaliate for the U.S. slaying of a prominent military commander.
Ali Shamkhani, head of Iran’s National Security Council, said even the mildest of these options would be a “historical nightmare” for the United States.Ali Shamkhani, head of Iran’s National Security Council, said even the mildest of these options would be a “historical nightmare” for the United States.
He added that the retaliation would “not be limited to a single operation.”He added that the retaliation would “not be limited to a single operation.”
Shamkhani declined to elaborate but specifically mentioned the many U.S. bases near the borders of Iran, saying “we’re aware of their military personnel and equipment.”Shamkhani declined to elaborate but specifically mentioned the many U.S. bases near the borders of Iran, saying “we’re aware of their military personnel and equipment.”
The killing of Soleimani by a U.S. airstrike has evoked a flurry of promises of revenge against U.S. targets, though with few specifics.The killing of Soleimani by a U.S. airstrike has evoked a flurry of promises of revenge against U.S. targets, though with few specifics.
ISTANBUL — Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Tuesday that the United States had denied his request for a visa to attend a meeting at the New York headquarters of the United Nations.ISTANBUL — Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said Tuesday that the United States had denied his request for a visa to attend a meeting at the New York headquarters of the United Nations.
The move appears to violate an agreement the United States made with the United Nations in 1947 requiring the U.S. government to facilitate the entry of foreign officials attending the organization’s meetings.The move appears to violate an agreement the United States made with the United Nations in 1947 requiring the U.S. government to facilitate the entry of foreign officials attending the organization’s meetings.
Zarif, who spoke on the sidelines of a conference in Tehran, said he was invited by the president of the U.N. Security Council to appear at a meeting emphasizing the importance of upholding the U.N. charter.Zarif, who spoke on the sidelines of a conference in Tehran, said he was invited by the president of the U.N. Security Council to appear at a meeting emphasizing the importance of upholding the U.N. charter.
Zarif is a U.S.-educated diplomat and skilled speaker who is frequently hosted by U.S. think tanks and meets regularly with American and other foreign journalists.Zarif is a U.S.-educated diplomat and skilled speaker who is frequently hosted by U.S. think tanks and meets regularly with American and other foreign journalists.
“The visa application was submitted several weeks ago,” said Zarif, whose movements in the United States were previously restricted by the Trump administration.“The visa application was submitted several weeks ago,” said Zarif, whose movements in the United States were previously restricted by the Trump administration.
He accused the administration of attempting to portray the visa request as timed to the aftermath of the U.S. strike against Soleimani.He accused the administration of attempting to portray the visa request as timed to the aftermath of the U.S. strike against Soleimani.
“That is why their response to us was that they ‘did not have enough time to issue the visa,’” he said. “They fear that someone will reveal the realities for Americans there.”“That is why their response to us was that they ‘did not have enough time to issue the visa,’” he said. “They fear that someone will reveal the realities for Americans there.”
DUBAI — The leader of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard Corps said Tuesday at the funeral of a colleague slain by a U.S. airstrike that locations loved by the United States would be set on fire in revenge — a possible reference to Israel.DUBAI — The leader of Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard Corps said Tuesday at the funeral of a colleague slain by a U.S. airstrike that locations loved by the United States would be set on fire in revenge — a possible reference to Israel.
Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami spoke to hundreds of thousands gathering in the southern Iranian town of Kerman, birthplace of Soleimani, leader of the Guard’s Quds Force.Maj. Gen. Hossein Salami spoke to hundreds of thousands gathering in the southern Iranian town of Kerman, birthplace of Soleimani, leader of the Guard’s Quds Force.
“We will set fire to the place they love, and they know where that is,” said Salami. Some commentators have suggested that he could have been referring to Israel. As he spoke, the crowd chanted “Death to Israel!”“We will set fire to the place they love, and they know where that is,” said Salami. Some commentators have suggested that he could have been referring to Israel. As he spoke, the crowd chanted “Death to Israel!”
U.S. strike gives Netanyahu a chance to shift focus from legal woes, but not for longU.S. strike gives Netanyahu a chance to shift focus from legal woes, but not for long
Since Friday’s killing of Soleimani, Iran’s leadership has repeatedly vowed to exact harsh revenge on U.S. military and political sites. U.S. troops and bases in the region are widely considered to be potential targets.Since Friday’s killing of Soleimani, Iran’s leadership has repeatedly vowed to exact harsh revenge on U.S. military and political sites. U.S. troops and bases in the region are widely considered to be potential targets.
Soleimani’s body has toured several cities in Iran, including the capital, Tehran, on Monday.Soleimani’s body has toured several cities in Iran, including the capital, Tehran, on Monday.
WASHINGTON — Senior administration officials have begun drafting sanctions against Iraq after President Trump publicly threatened the country with economic penalties if it proceeded to expel U.S. troops, according to three people briefed on the planning.WASHINGTON — Senior administration officials have begun drafting sanctions against Iraq after President Trump publicly threatened the country with economic penalties if it proceeded to expel U.S. troops, according to three people briefed on the planning.
The Treasury Department and White House will probably take a lead role if the sanctions are implemented, the officials said. Such a step would represent a highly unusual move against a foreign ally that the United States has spent almost two decades and hundreds of billions of dollars supporting.The Treasury Department and White House will probably take a lead role if the sanctions are implemented, the officials said. Such a step would represent a highly unusual move against a foreign ally that the United States has spent almost two decades and hundreds of billions of dollars supporting.
The officials emphasized that talks were preliminary and that no final decision has been made on whether to impose the sanctions.The officials emphasized that talks were preliminary and that no final decision has been made on whether to impose the sanctions.
After Trump’s threat, administration begins drafting possible sanctions against IraqAfter Trump’s threat, administration begins drafting possible sanctions against Iraq
One of the officials said the plan was to wait “at least a little while” on the sanctions decision to see whether Iraqi officials followed through on their threat to push U.S. troops out of the country.One of the officials said the plan was to wait “at least a little while” on the sanctions decision to see whether Iraqi officials followed through on their threat to push U.S. troops out of the country.
The discussion about sanctions follow Trump’s decision to kill Soleimani last week. In response to the killing, Iraq’s parliament voted to expel American troops from the country.The discussion about sanctions follow Trump’s decision to kill Soleimani last week. In response to the killing, Iraq’s parliament voted to expel American troops from the country.
WASHINGTON — After the U.S. military’s letter describing plans to reposition troops within Iraq in preparation for a possible withdrawal leaked, Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., commander of the U.S. Central Command, which oversees the Middle East. McKenzie told him the draft letter was an honest mistake, “but used other words that were a little more colorful than mistake,” Milley said.WASHINGTON — After the U.S. military’s letter describing plans to reposition troops within Iraq in preparation for a possible withdrawal leaked, Gen. Mark A. Milley, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, called Gen. Kenneth F. McKenzie Jr., commander of the U.S. Central Command, which oversees the Middle East. McKenzie told him the draft letter was an honest mistake, “but used other words that were a little more colorful than mistake,” Milley said.
The U.S. military drafted the letter because it is moving forces around the region, within Iraq and from Kuwait into Iraq, and anticipates increased helicopter movement, Milley said, noting that draft letters are often coordinated with partners in advance, but are circulated without the signature of the official sending the communication.The U.S. military drafted the letter because it is moving forces around the region, within Iraq and from Kuwait into Iraq, and anticipates increased helicopter movement, Milley said, noting that draft letters are often coordinated with partners in advance, but are circulated without the signature of the official sending the communication.
Once a policy afterthought, Iraq becomes a problem for Trump administrationOnce a policy afterthought, Iraq becomes a problem for Trump administration
The leaked letter wasn’t signed. Milley said that McKenzie, the top U.S. commander overseeing the Middle East, said the letter should never have happened. “We understand U.S. government policy — nobody is leaving, there’s no onward movement, we got all that. Honest mistake. Draft,” Milley said McKenzie told him.The leaked letter wasn’t signed. Milley said that McKenzie, the top U.S. commander overseeing the Middle East, said the letter should never have happened. “We understand U.S. government policy — nobody is leaving, there’s no onward movement, we got all that. Honest mistake. Draft,” Milley said McKenzie told him.