A letter saying that the U.S. was “repositioning forces” for “movement out of Iraq” produced headlines around the world that a withdrawal had begun.
Tag: Baghdad (Iraq)
How U.S. Troops Are Preparing for the Worst in the Middle East
The Pentagon has directed about 4,500 troops to the region atop the roughly 50,000 already there as tensions rise with Iran. They are reinforcing their outposts, bases and airfields.
Iranians Close Ranks Behind Leaders After U.S. Kills Popular General
The death of Qassim Suleimani strengthened the hand of hard-liners, experts say, and undermined those who have tried to normalize relations with the West.
Cries of ‘Revenge Is Coming’ at Funerals for Slain Commanders in Iraq
Tens of thousands mourned the killing of a major Iraqi official and a top Iranian general by a U.S. drone strike, as the Middle East braced for Iran’s response.
Is There a Risk of Wider War With Iran?
All but forced to retaliate, Iran will likely aim for limited counterattacks that damage the United States but don’t lead to all-out war. Miscalculation could mean things spiral out of control.
The Killing of Gen. Qassim Suleimani: What We Know Since the U.S. Airstrike
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, promised retaliation. The U.S. moved to send more troops to the Middle East. And a deluge of threats on social media.
After Embassy Attack, U.S. Prepared to Pre-Emptively Strike Militias in Iraq
Defense Secretary Mark T. Esper, who issued the warning after an American contractor was killed by an Iranian-supported militia, said, “The game has changed.”
Pro-Iranian Protesters End Siege of U.S. Embassy in Baghdad
Iran’s ability to deploy militias to attack the American Embassy, with Iraqi support, made clear how much power it wields in Iraq.
Trump Warns Iran as Risk of Wider Armed Conflict Grows
Administration officials say they are restoring “deterrence” against Iran, but the president’s reluctance to use force in the Middle East may be creating an opening for Tehran.
Protesters Attack U.S. Embassy in Iraq, Chanting ‘Death to America’
President Trump blamed Iran after demonstrators breached the compound’s outer wall. Tensions are high after American airstrikes killed members of an Iran-backed militia.