Tensions Rise in the Region; IRGC Claims to Have Targeted 'Terrorist' Positions

Iraqi and international news agencies reported late on Monday, January 15, about missile attacks near the U.S. consulate in Erbil, Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Moments later, the IRGC claimed responsibility for these attacks, stating that they also targeted 'terrorist' positions in Syria. Saberin News, citing its correspondent in Kurdistan and the Hengaw human rights organization, reported that late on Monday, areas near the new U.S. consulate building in Erbil were heavily targeted by missile strikes. Hengaw, which covers news related to Kurdish areas, reported based on reliable sources that the IRGC targeted this area of Erbil with several missiles from the 'Tanghe Konisht' missile base located between the cities of Kermanshah and Kamyaran. The IRGC immediately took responsibility for these attacks in a statement, claiming that they targeted 'spy bases and gathering places of terrorist groups' with ballistic missiles. The organization did not mention the names of these 'spy' or 'terrorist' groups, but shortly after, in another statement, it announced that in the missile attacks on Syria, it targeted 'the gathering places of commanders and key elements related to the recent incidents in Kerman and Rask in Sistan and Baluchestan.' A Telegram channel associated with the IRGC also published photos of these attacks, stating that in the attack on Erbil, the 'American al-Harir base' was targeted. Reuters reported, citing Iraqi security sources, that Erbil International Airport was closed after the IRGC's missile attacks on Monday night, and all flights from this airport were halted. Further updates will be published subsequently. Concerns expressed by the British Defense Minister; Iran's 83% uranium enrichment has no justification. The group 'Jaish al-Adl' claimed responsibility for the attack on the IRGC base in Saravan County. Greek owners of the oil tanker seized by the Islamic Republic: the crew is safe. A review of reactions to U.S. and British attacks on Houthi positions in Yemen. Tensions in the Gulf of Aden; Houthis claimed responsibility for the recent attack on an American ship. CENTCOM: Iran-backed Houthis launched a missile attack on a U.S. ship. Qatar halted the shipment of liquefied gas via the Red Sea.