Iran's Revolutionary Guard Commander Kuds Army killed in US air strike Gesme Soleimani


Iran's military commander, Soleimani, has called for restraint so that the international community will not lead to more serious conflicts after tensions have escalated following the death of an American air strike.

In a statement, UN Secretary-General Antony Gutès said, "I am deeply concerned about the recent escalation of tensions." Now is the time for leaders to exercise their best self-control.

"The world can't afford another war in the Gulf," says Gutès.

European Union diplomatic and security representative Josef Borrell also made a statement and said, "The EU urges all parties and allies to be as restrained and accountable as possible."

But Iranian and Islamic Shi'ites are strongly opposed to retaliation.
Iran's chief leader, Ayatollah Ali Hamenai, warned that "Soleimani's martyrdom is a god's reward for his lifelong devotion," and "a harsh retribution awaits criminals who have buried the blood of his martyrdom."

Pro-Iran militias in Iraq have ordered preparations for US troops.

Lebanese Islamic Shi'ite militants Hezbollah have also criticized the United States.

Hassan Nasrallah Hezbollah, general secretary, said, "The United States will not be able to achieve its goals."

Russia and China have also added criticism to the United States.

The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs quickly commented during the New Year's holiday and feared "US actions could have serious consequences for peace and stability in the Middle East."
A spokesman for China's Foreign Ministry said in a regular briefing, "I urge all countries involved, especially the United States, to stay cool and under control, avoiding heightened tensions."

He criticized the US for "consistent opposition to the use of force in international relations."

Israel reaffirmed its unilateral support for the United States.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: "Trump's decisive, powerful, and prompt action deserves recognition."

(Photo: AP, Iran's Chief Leader's Office, Yonhap News)