Iran pledges retribution after blasts claim 95 lives at Soleimani memorial

PTC News Desk: During a commemoration for an Iranian general killed in a 2020 US drone strike, twin explosions claimed the lives of 95 individuals. The incident marks one of Iran's deadliest attacks since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

In Iran's Kerman city, over 95 people perished, and 200 others sustained injuries in the twin blasts that disrupted a ceremony honoring Qassem Soleimani, the commander slain by a US drone. Iranian state television reported a second explosion roughly 20 minutes after the initial blast.

No entity has claimed responsibility for the explosions. However, Iranian authorities attributed the incident to unspecified "terrorists." Meanwhile, a senior Biden administration official in the US suggested the explosions bore the hallmarks of "a terrorist attack," reminiscent of actions previously executed by Islamic State militants.

Putin: The killing of civilians in Iran is shocking with its cruelty

???????? Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to the Iranian leadership after the explosions in Kerman, repeating that Russia condemns terrorism in all its forms. pic.twitter.com/XQj16DTMH6 — S p r i n t e r (@Sprinter99800) January 3, 2024

Deadliest Attack in Iran's History

At least 95 people lost their lives, with over 200 injured in twin explosions during a ceremony in Iran's Kerman city. The incident occurred during commemorations for General Qassem Soleimani, killed by a US drone in 2020, making it the deadliest attack since Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution.

Explosions and Casualties

The explosions, near Soleimani's gravesite, shook Kerman, 820 kilometers southeast of Tehran. The second blast, occurring 20 minutes later, caused more casualties. Iranian President Raisi condemned it as a "heinous crime," and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei vowed harsh retaliation.

No Claim of Responsibility

No group claimed responsibility, but Iranian officials attributed it to "terrorists." A US official suggested a potential terrorist attack, resembling past actions by Islamic State militants. No indication of a foreign state's involvement was reported.

Over 100 people were killed in Iran in blasts at a memorial in the southern city of Kerman to the slain IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in a US drone strike at Baghdad airport in 2020.

????https://t.co/oDZp38GJll pic.twitter.com/2R8UeXdjun — MedyaNews (@medyanews_) January 4, 2024

Global Condemnation and Investigation

Countries like Russia and Turkey condemned the attacks. Videos on social media displayed chaotic scenes, with rescuers aiding the injured. The UN Secretary-General called for accountability, and Russian President Putin denounced terrorism. An investigation is ongoing.

General Soleimani's Legacy

Soleimani, an iconic figure in Iran, played a crucial role in regional military activities. His death in 2020 heightened tensions between the US and Iran. Past processions for Soleimani have seen tragedies, including a stampede in 2020, resulting in casualties.

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Regional Implications

Iran has been accused of supporting terrorist groups. The recent bombings could be linked to Iran's regional involvement, with groups like Hezbollah and the Houthis. The geopolitical landscape involving Israel, Gaza, and the Middle East remains tense.

Historical Context

The US drone strike that killed Soleimani in 2020 nearly led to a full-blown conflict between the US and Iran. Since then, Iran-backed militants have targeted US forces in retaliation, contributing to ongoing regional tensions.

Continued Threats and Retaliations

Various groups, including Islamic State and Baluchi militants, have targeted Iran in the past. The Middle East's complex dynamics continue to influence geopolitical events, with incidents like the recent bombings underscoring the persistent threat of violence in the region.

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