Kerman, Iran – Two consecutive explosions rocked a ceremony commemorating the 2020 killing of a top Iranian general, resulting in the deaths of at least 95 individuals and leaving over 210 wounded. The Iranian authorities declared this as the deadliest attack in the country since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The second explosion took place 20 minutes after the first, potentially indicating a deliberate attempt to target emergency responders and civilians.
The incident occurred during the fourth anniversary of the assassination of Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the leader of the Revolutionary Guard’s elite Quds Force, who was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Iraq. The explosions happened near his gravesite while numerous people had gathered to mark the occasion. Despite the severity of the attack, no group has claimed responsibility for it, leaving many unanswered questions for Iranian officials.
Iran has been the target of previous targeted killings and sabotage attacks, with Israel being the suspected culprit. However, these assaults did not result in mass casualties like the attack in Kerman. Sunni extremist groups, such as the Islamic State, have carried out large-scale attacks in the past, resulting in civilian deaths in Shia-majority Iran.
The death toll from the attack was initially reported as at least 103 individuals but was later revised lower due to double-counting of names. Dozens remain in critical condition, heightening concerns about the long-term impact of the assault. The lack of immediate claim of responsibility has raised fears of potential future attacks, leaving the people in uncertainty and fear.
In summary, the back-to-back explosions in Kerman, Iran, on the anniversary of Soleimani’s killing have left at least 95 people dead and over 210 wounded. With no group claiming responsibility, concerns about future attacks and the long-term impact on the community continue to grow. The Iranian authorities are faced with the daunting task of ensuring the safety and security of their citizens in the aftermath of this devastating event.