While such a measure was passed, it was later stripped from NDAA when it was approved in December.;

Rubin is a well-liked Washington Jewish figure who is as comfortable on cable news defending the Iran nuclear deal that Israel reviled as he is schmoozing at an Israeli Embassy social event.;

After hearing via Iranian media that Soleimani refused to open the letter, Pompeo added: "Didn't break my heart to be honest with you.";

"I believe there was a threat, but the question of how imminent is still one I want answered," Senator Mark Warner said.;

Iranian U.N. Ambassador Majid Takht Ravanchi wrote in a letter that the killing of Soleimani "by any measure, is an obvious example of State terrorism.";

According to pro-Hezbollah media source Al-Manar, the strikes targeted a convoy of Iraq's Popular Mobilization Forces umbrella grouping of Iran-backed Shia militias.;

Mourners started gathering in Baghdad's streets in the morning ahead of the start of the procession, waving Iraqi and militia flags in a somber atmosphere.;

Germany has around 120 troops deployed in Iraq under the US-led Operation Inherent Resolve.;