Iran Blames Israel and US for Twin Bomb Blasts in Kerman
Tensions in the Middle East escalated on Wednesday as Iran blamed Israel and the United States for twin bomb blasts that killed at least 84 people in the southern city of Kerman. The explosions occurred during a gathering to commemorate Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani, who was killed in a US strike four years ago.
The attacks, labeled as a “terrorist attack” by state media and regional authorities, took place amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza and the recent killing of a Hamas senior leader in Lebanon. While the attacks remain unclaimed, Iran’s President’s political deputy, Mohammad Jamshidi, accused the US and Israel of being responsible. He wrote on X (formerly Twitter), “Washington says USA and Israel had no role in terrorist attack in Kerman, Iran. Really? A fox smells its own lair first. Make no mistake. The responsibility for this crime lies with the US and Zionist regimes (Israel) and terrorism is just a tool.”
The United States and Israel denied any involvement in the attacks. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller stated, “The United States was not involved in any way… We have no reason to believe that Israel was involved in this explosion.” Israeli army spokesman Daniel Hagari also emphasized their focus on combat with Hamas.
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed “evil and criminal enemies” for the attack and promised a “harsh response.” President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the “heinous” crime and declared Thursday a national day of mourning.
The explosions occurred near the Martyrs Cemetery at the Saheb Al-Zaman Mosque in Kerman, Soleimani’s hometown. The first explosion took place around 700 meters from Soleimani’s grave, while the second explosion occurred approximately one kilometer away. Initial reports suggested that 103 people were killed, but Health Minister Bahram Eynollahi later revised the toll to 95. Three paramedics who rushed to the scene after the first explosion were among the casualties.
The attacks sparked panic and chaos, with footage showing crowds scrambling to flee and bloodied victims lying on the ground. The global markets reacted to the news, with oil prices jumping more than three percent. The international community condemned the attacks, with the United Nations, European Union, and several countries expressing their solidarity with Iran.
This incident marks Iran’s deadliest attack since the 1978 Cinema Rex arson attack in Abadan. Iran has long been engaged in a shadow war with Israel, as well as battling various jihadist and militant groups. In recent months, Iran has reported arrests of individuals affiliated with terrorist organizations planning attacks within the country.
Qasem Soleimani, who was hailed as a hero in Iran for his role in defeating ISIS in Iraq and Syria, was a significant powerbroker in the region. His killing by the US in 2020 further heightened tensions between Iran and its adversaries.
As investigations into the twin bomb blasts continue, Iran remains determined to identify and punish those responsible for this act of terror. The international community stands in solidarity with Iran during this difficult time, condemning the attacks and offering condolences to the Iranian people.
In conclusion, the twin bomb blasts in Kerman have shaken Iran and raised concerns about escalating tensions in the Middle East. As Iran blames Israel and the US for the attacks, the international community awaits further developments and hopes for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflicts in the region.