Amidst Iran's Tensions, Twin Blasts Kill 20 during Commander Soleimani's Fourth Death Anniversary
- Posted on January 3, 2024
- International Affairs
- By Arijit Dutta
- 208 Views
During a memorial ceremony in Iran for the late commander Qasem Soleimani, two successive explosions resulted in the deaths of 20 individuals and left numerous others wounded. The cause remains uncertain, with speculations ranging from gas canister mishaps to potential terrorist involvement. The incident disrupted the gathering's solemn proceedings.
Amid
a memorial ceremony in Iran commemorating the fourth death anniversary of
Commander Qasem Soleimani, the atmosphere turned tragic and chaotic due to
two successive explosions. The incident occurred in Kerman city, where mourners
had gathered near a cemetery to pay homage to the late commander, who was
killed in a US drone attack in 2020.
The
explosions, occurring near the ceremony, claimed the lives of at least 20
individuals and left scores wounded. The scene was one of panic and confusion
as Iranian state media reported on the unfolding tragedy. Initial reports
suggested uncertainty about the cause, oscillating between speculation of gas
canister mishaps and the potential of a deliberate terrorist attack.
Amidst
the chaos, state television broadcasted distressing visuals of Red Crescent
rescuers hurriedly attending to the injured amidst a sea of people. Conflicting
reports surfaced, indicating that at least 50 individuals had been wounded,
adding to the scale of the tragedy.
Reza Fallah, the head of the Red Crescent in Kerman province, highlighted the challenges faced by the rescue teams. He mentioned the difficulties in evacuating the injured due to the overwhelming crowds that obstructed crucial roads, hampering swift medical response.
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This
unexpected disruption cast a pall over the otherwise solemn memorial event for
Soleimani. It stirred concerns and raised questions about the safety and
security protocols during such gatherings. Investigations into the cause of the
explosions were promptly initiated, aiming to discern whether they resulted
from gas cylinder accidents or a premeditated act of violence.
The
incident drew attention to the ongoing tensions in Iran and sparked discussions
about ensuring the safety of public gatherings in the region. As authorities
delve into the details surrounding the tragic event, the nation grapples with
the aftermath of an unexpected and distressing disruption during a significant
commemorative occasion.