Air raids over eastern Syria near Iraqi border kill 6 Iran-backed militants
Associated PressDec 30, 2023
Iran: Deadly Explosions Strike Soleimani Ceremony
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The Facts
Two bombs exploded in Iran during a ceremony commemorating the fourth year since former Iranian General Qassem Soleimani was killed by a US drone strike in Iraq. According to Iranian officials, at least 95 people were killed and more than 200 injured by Wednesday's explosions (with numbers being revised by Iranian officials).
Iran said the explosions, which occurred near Soleimani's grave site in the southeastern city of Kerman — roughly 820 kilometers (510 miles) away from the capital Tehran — were a "terrorist attack," but didn't provide any potential causes. The two bombs went off one after the other, with three paramedics reportedly being killed as they rushed in to help after the first blast.
The Spin
Anti-Iran narrative
This is likely another example of Iranian nationals using terrorism to fight against the brutal regime. Following decades of oppression, Iran has unfortunately experienced a growing number of militant groups using violence as a means to put pressure on the authoritarian state. The world should not look at the West or Israel but rather the numerous armed and exiled groups whom Tehran has persecuted in the past. Violence in Iran sadly has been a self-fulfilling prophecy due to a repressive regime.
Pro-Iran narrative
As the enemies of Iran continue to instigate violence against the country and its people, Tehran knows who they are and where to find them. This evil act will be investigated thoroughly and its perpetrators swiftly brought to justice. Terrorism as a means of political action has never won over the hearts of Iranians, and this time will be no different — this means investigating and bringing to justice actors both domestic and foreign.
