US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called world leaders to explain and defend President Donald Trump’s decision to launch an airstrike that killed legendary Iranian general Qasem Soleimani, AP reported.

Pompeo held talks with the UK and German Foreign Ministers, as well as with the Chinese State councillor.

Pompeo assured the US seeks to reduce tensions in the Middle East, which increased after militias supported by Iran killed the American contractor and the US responded with blows.