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India expresses concern over Soleimani’s killing
Why is it in news?
- India expressed concern over the situation arising from the killing early on Friday of Iranian General Qassem Soleimani in an attack that also killed the chief of an Iraqi militia.
More in news
- Statement by MEA
(1) The increase in tension has alarmed the world. Peace, stability and security in this region are of utmost importance to India.
(2) It is vital that the situation does not escalate further. India has consistently advocated restraint and continues to do so.
- Significance of Iran and it’s neighbourhood for India
(1) More than eight million Indians live and work in the region, contributing a large part in remittances back home.
(2) India sources more than 2/3rds of its oil from West Asia, mainly Saudi Arabia and Iraq, and any retaliation from Iran will affect its supplies.
- Who was Qassem Soleimani?
(1) Qassem Soleimani was an Iranian major general in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and commander of its Quds Force,
(2) Quds Force is an elite unit that handles Iran's overseas operations and one deemed to be a foreign terrorist organization by the US.
(3) Under Soleimani's leadership, the Quds Force vastly expanded its capabilities, becoming a significant influence in intelligence, financial, and political spheres beyond Iran's borders.
Source
The Hindu