US-Iran conflict: Before and after the killing of Gen Soleimani
While tensions between the US and Iran date back to the early 1950s, the two countries find themselves on the brink of a war that could have longstanding geopolitical implications in the volatile region. The precursors to the latest threat, while not the first of its kind in recent years, can be traced back to the events that unfolded in the last week of December, 2019.
Here, Dawn.com looks back at some of the major events leading up to the assassination of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani — the architect of Iran's drive to extend its influence across the region and a national hero among many Iranians — and the war drums that have been beating since.
Dec 27: US Defence contractor killed in Iraq
A rocket attack on an Iraqi military compound near Kirkuk, Iraq, left a US defence contractor dead and at least four US military personnel injured.
While the US Department of Defence did not officially name who was responsible for the attack, US media reported officials as saying that the attack was orchestrated by Kataib Hezbollah — an Iran-backed militia group. The latter denied any involvement in the attack.