Source: Xinhua Editor: huaxia 2024-01-05
TEHRAN, Jan. 5 (Xinhua) — Iranian authorities have arrested “some individuals” in connection with the deadly twin bombing that struck a crowd gathered near the tomb of General Qassem Soleimani in Kerman, southeastern Iran, Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi said Friday.
Vahidi, speaking on state television, acknowledged “good clues” in identifying the individuals involved in the Wednesday attack, which has killed at least 89 people and injured over 280.
He added that further details will be provided by the intelligence authorities, which he said are in “full control” of the investigation.
Vahidi alluded to foreign involvement, alleging the perpetrators belonged to “terrorist circles supported by regimes that create terrorists,” adding necessary actions would be taken as soon as possible against those responsible.
The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group claimed responsibility for the bombings on Thursday, asserting two suicide attackers carried out the blasts.
Also on Friday, Iran held a mass funeral ceremony for the victims in Kerman, attended by President Ebrahim Raisi and senior officials.
Raisi vowed a forceful response, asserting that Iran’s armed forces “have the initiative” and will choose the “timing and place” to avenge the attack.
“The enemy has, on numerous occasions, seen and experienced Iran’s power,” Raisi stated, noting “concerning the recent events, I also give the assurance that the enemy will always see Iran’s power.”
Chief Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) Hossein Salami also emphasized that Iran would “take revenge for the terrorist attack.”
The bomb attacks on Wednesday marked one of the deadliest incidents in Iran in decades. Two explosions occurred near the Qassem Soleimani cemetery, where thousands of Iranians had gathered to honor the late general, who was assassinated in a U.S. drone attack on January 3, 2020.
SANGHA KOMMUNE (SSR) 