The official spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Randhir Jaiswal, on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the twin bomb blasts in Kerman city, Iran, and extended solidarity to the government and people of Iran.
In a statement on X, Jaiswal said, “We are shocked and saddened by the terrible bombings in Kerman City of Iran. At this difficult time, we express our solidarity with the government and people of Iran. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and with the wounded.”
Meanwhile, the death toll from the twin blasts near the burial site of commander Qasem Soleimani has reached 103, with 188 people reported injured. While officials have labeled it a 'terror' attack, no specific details are available at this time.
The first explosion occurred 700 meters away from Soleimani's grave, followed by a second blast a kilometer away as pilgrims visited the site, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA).
The explosions coincided with the fourth anniversary of Soleimani's death from a US air strike, raising concerns of escalating regional tensions, particularly in the wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
Although no organization has claimed responsibility, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi accused Israel of orchestrating the attacks, issuing a warning of a “heavy price” for the alleged crime.
“I warn the Zionist regime; do not doubt that you will pay a heavy price for this crime and the crimes you have committed,” Raisi stated in a televised speech from Tehran, according to CNN.
Following the blasts, Raisi declared a day of mourning in Iran, and he also canceled his planned visit to Turkey. Additionally, he issued a stern warning, emphasizing that Israel would face “regrettable and severe” consequences.
Qasem Soleimani, a highly influential figure in Iran, led the Revolutionary Guards' Quds Force, overseeing Iran's international operations. The U.S. had designated the Quds Force as a foreign terrorist organization.
(Inputs from ANI)
