Top commander vows Iranian regime will launch further attacks in response to slaying of Quds Force general in American drone strike

Francis had hoped to travel to Iraq this year to minister to faithful who have endured years of attacks and persecution by the Islamic State group

Analysts warn pro-Iranian militias may continue to seek revenge for slaying of senior commander and that there is no obvious mediator to calm tensions in the country

Incident occurs 24 hours after Iran fired ballistic missiles at bases housing US forces, as Washington-Tehran tensions soar

Pelosi says move prompted by 'insufficient' briefing that shows administration has no 'coherent strategy'; Republican Sen. Mike Lee calls it 'worst' briefing he's received

But expert questions how Iran claimed so quickly after the accident that no foul play was involved; US-Iran tensions likely to hamper probe

Gen. Milley says early warnings enabled troops to take cover preventing casualties; Pentagon chief says US has reestablished deterrence toward Iran

Observers say that even though little in Iran is left to be sanctioned, US could boost existing penalties or demand reimposition of UN measures lifted in nuke deal

US president says immediate sanctions to be imposed on Islamic Republic, vows Tehran will never be allowed nuclear weapons, claims IRGC missiles 'paid for' by Obama administration

With troops now focused on defending themselves and American interests in region, they have been diverted from their mission to put an end to jihadist terror group