Twitter trends can often take the most unexpected turns. World War III is trending and the reason might shock you. While we may have thought that the new year 2020 would start on a peaceful note, fears of World War III is already looming large. This comes after the killing of the Iranian leader’s second in command in a US airstrike. United States President Donald Trump ordered the killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani who died in Baghdad "in a decisive defensive action to protect US personnel abroad," the Pentagon said. Once the news broke out, World War 3 became the top trend on social media site- Twitter. And surprisingly, funny jokes and memes related to World War 3 took over the internet. World War 3 Fears Erupt as Iran Vows 'Harsh Retaliation' to US Airstrikes That Killed Qassem Soleimani.

The attack was in retaliation to a New Year's Eve attack by Iran-backed militias on the US Embassy in Baghdad. The Pentagon stated that "General Suleimani was actively developing plans to attack American diplomats and service members in Iran and throughout the region. General Suleimani and his Quds Force were responsible for the deaths of hundreds of American and coalition service members and the wounding of thousands more."

"This strike was aimed at deterring future Iranian attack plans. The United States will continue to take all necessary action to protect our people and our interests wherever they are around the world," it added. Iran Guards Commander Qassem Soleimani Was Killed on US President Donald Trump's Order, Says Pentagon.

After the news of Soleimani's death broke, Iran's supreme leader Ali Khamenei warned of possible retaliation. And how the internet reacted to this news? Well, witty World War 3 related memes and jokes started trending on social media, especially on Twitter. Searches for 'Iran' and 'World War 3' also spiked on Google trends within hours of the airstrike in Iran.

Twitter Reactions:

This.

Ok.

Memes and More Memes?

We Really Can't Even...

Speechless

Trying Hard To Not Laugh?

*Tries Real Hard*

Sponge Bob Knows It

This Is Hilarious, or Is It?

However, Some Twitteratis Also Took it Serious

World War I and World War II both took place in the 20th century and caused massive destructions, displacements and deaths. An estimated 22 million people died in WWI while the casualties in WWII is estimated to be 70-85 million. Apart from war, the conflict also leads to war-borne diseases, economic slowdown and severe civilian casualties.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 03, 2020 11:25 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).