Iran Vows ‘Harsh Response’ after Deadly Blasts in Kerman
Two explosions rocked the southeastern city of Kerman in Iran on Wednesday, killing nearly 100 people and injuring over 200 others. The attacks occurred during a ceremony to commemorate the death of top Iranian commander Qassem Soleimani, who was killed in a 2020 drone strike. The blasts took place along the road leading to Kerman’s Martyrs’ Cemetery, and while no one has claimed responsibility, Iranian officials have blamed a “terrorist attack.”
In response to the deadly explosions, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, promised a “harsh response.” “The evil and criminal enemies of the Iranian nation once again created a disaster and martyred a large number of dear people in Kerman. This disaster will have a harsh response, God willing,” Khamenei said in a statement.
Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi also condemned the attacks and vowed to identify and punish the perpetrators. He reassured the Iranian people that such actions could never disrupt their solid determination.
The global community also reacted to the deadly blasts. The European Union condemned the attack and demanded justice for the perpetrators. Additionally, leaders from Hezbollah, the Houthis, Iraq, Malaysia, Russia, Turkey, and the United Nations offered their condolences and solidarity with Iran, denouncing the violence and calling for accountability.
US officials have rejected any suggestion that the United States or ally Israel was behind the deadly blasts. Department of State spokesperson Matthew Miller stated, “The United States was not involved in any way, and any suggestion to the contrary is ridiculous. We do express our sympathies to the victims and their loved ones who died in this horrific explosion.”
The explosions in Kerman have sparked international condemnation and raised concerns about escalating tensions in the region. As Iran mourns the loss of lives and recovers from the aftermath of the attacks, the global community stands in solidarity with the Iranian people during this challenging time.