In a devastating attack on Wednesday, nearly 100 people were killed and over 200 injured at an event commemorating the fourth anniversary of the death of former Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani. The event, held at Soleimani's gravesite in Kerman, was attended by thousands of Iranians who carried photos of the revered former head of the Revolutionary Guard's elite Quds Force. Authorities reported that two bombs went off during the event, with the first explosion occurring just 700 meters from Soleimani's grave, followed by a second blast a kilometer away.

The graphic video footage that emerged online showed the chaotic scene as the crowds fled and emergency crews rushed to respond. Bodies were seen lying on the ground, painting a grim picture of the aftermath. The footage also indicated that the second blast took place approximately 15 minutes after the first, a tactic commonly employed by terrorist groups to target emergency responders and maximize casualties. The bombs were reportedly placed in suitcases and detonated remotely.

Local authorities quickly labeled the explosions as terrorist attacks, with one official stating that "several gas canisters exploded on the road leading to the cemetery." A senior White House official also characterized the incident as a terrorist attack, noting the similarity to tactics previously used by ISIS. However, no group has claimed responsibility for the attack thus far.

The death toll initially rose to 103, according to the head of Kerman's emergency services. However, this number was later revised to 95 after officials discovered repeat names on the list of victims. The toll may still increase as many of the 211 wounded individuals are in critical condition. Iranian Health Minister Bahram Einollahi expressed concern over the severity of the injuries and the potential for further fatalities.

Following the attack, Iran's head of judiciary, Gholam Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, vowed to find and punish the perpetrators. He emphasized the obligation of intelligence, security, and law enforcement agencies to swiftly investigate and apprehend those responsible. The incident has once again highlighted Iran's numerous enemies, including exile groups, militant organizations, and state actors, any of whom could be behind the attack.

Qassem Soleimani, the man being honored at the event, was a divisive figure. While regarded as a national hero by supporters of Iran's theocracy, he was considered a threat to American interests due to his involvement in arming terrorists with roadside bombs that targeted and killed US troops. Soleimani played a crucial role in securing Syrian President Bashar Assad's victory during the country's civil war. In 2020, he was killed in a US drone strike ordered by President Donald Trump, sparking widespread protests and backlash against the United States.

The attack in Kerman echoes the tragedy that occurred during Soleimani's funeral in 2020 when a stampede broke out, resulting in the deaths of at least 56 people and injuries to over 200 others. The city of Kerman had previously remained relatively untouched by the unrest and attacks that have plagued Iran, as it is located in a remote desert plateau.

As investigations into the attack continue, the Iranian government and its security forces are determined to bring the perpetrators to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, particularly amid Israel's conflict with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The region remains on high alert as authorities work to prevent further acts of violence and ensure the safety of their citizens.