Israel-Hamas war live updates: 'Intensive' phase of Gaza operations will end soon, Israel says
NBCJan 29
The Facts
On Monday, Iran struck what it claimed to be a base for Israel's intelligence agency, Mossad, along with other locations allegedly hosting Iranian opposition groups, in Erbil — the capital of the semi-autonomous Kurdistan region in northern Iraq. Baghdad recalled its ambassador to Tehran in response on Tuesday.
Four civilians were killed and six injured, according to the Kurdish regional government, as the ballistic missile struck what Iran called Israel's “spy headquarters” for the region, located near the US Consulate.
The Spin
Anti-Iran narrative
Iran is stirring up more trouble in an already explosive region. A more unstable Iraq is the last thing the Middle East needs at this point, making the strikes on Erbil an utterly reckless act. Tehran must respect the sovereignty of Iraq and allow peace to return to the region.
Pro-Iran narrative
Contrary to claims from the West, Iran isn't the one inflaming tensions in the region. Monday's strikes — which abided by international laws — are a direct response to terrorist actions committed against Iran, which not only has a right but a duty to defend its civilians.
