Tehran, January 8: Over 80 US nationals were killed in the ballistic missile attack on US military bases in Iraq, claimed Iran's state-run TV and news outlet. Iran on Wednesday launched over a dozen ballistic missiles targeting at least two bases where US military and coalition forces' are stationed in Iraq, the Pentagon said on Tuesday. Iran Launches Ballistic Missile Strike Against US in Iraq.

US President Donald Trump also confirmed reports about Iran's retaliation after US air strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani on Friday in Baghdad. However, the President did not confirm reports about casualties and tweeted, "All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq. Assessment of casualties & damages taking place now. So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far! I will be making a statement tomorrow morning." 'Iran Not Seeking Escalation or War, Acted in Self Defence', Says FM Javad Zarif After Missile Strike on US Bases in Iraq.

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The escalating tensions between Iran and the US are having a far reaching effect on countries of the world. India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Wednesday issued a warning for Indian nationals who are planning to visit Iraq. The Foreign Ministry has appealed all citizens to call off their non-essential visits to the nation in view of the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran. The government has also asked Indian carriers to avoid the airspace above the Persian Gulf.

The MEA, in its statement, said the Indian Embassy in Iraq capital Baghdad and the Consulate based in Erbil will discharge their normal functions for now. Despite the US retreating all its consular services from the conflict-ridden nation, other countries have not clamped down on the functioning of their Embassies despite the heightening tensions.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 08, 2020 11:56 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).