Iranian authorities have apprehended 35 individuals linked to the devastating January 3 attacks in the southeastern city of Kerman. The assault, which occurred during a memorial for top commander Qassem Soleimani, claimed the lives of nearly 100 people and left 284 wounded. As the nation grapples with the aftermath, details are emerging about the perpetrators and the complex web of international connections behind the tragedy.
Abdollah Tajiki’s Infiltration
The Iranian Intelligence Ministry has identified Abdollah Tajiki, a Tajik national, as the mastermind behind the Kerman bombing. The intelligence report reveals that Tajiki entered Iran in mid-December, skillfully crossing the country’s southeast border. He meticulously planned the attack and left the nation just two days before it unfolded, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
Read More: Tensions likely to escalate as Iran snatches Tanker linked with US
Bozrov’s Dual Nationality
One of the bombers, identified as Bozrov, was a 24-year-old individual with dual Tajik and Israeli nationality. According to the report, Bozrov underwent months of training with the Islamic State (IS) in Afghanistan before entering Iran through the southeastern border. The revelation of his dual nationality adds a layer of complexity to the motives behind the attack, raising questions about potential geopolitical implications.
IS Involvement and Claims
The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack on January 4, naming the two bombers as Omar Al-Mowahed and Seif-Allah Al-Mujahed. The report, however, suggests discrepancies in the identities provided by the terrorist organization and those identified by Iranian authorities. The ongoing efforts to identify the second suicide bomber underscore the intricate challenges faced by security forces in unraveling the full extent of the attackers’ network.
Tensions Escalate
With the Kerman attack being the bloodiest incident since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Tehran has vehemently vowed revenge. The Iranian government is under immense pressure to safeguard its citizens and address the growing threat posed by international terrorist networks. The incident has further heightened regional tensions and brought the spotlight back onto Iran’s role in the broader geopolitical landscape.
Read More: Minority Minister Smriti Irani visits Holy sites in Madina
As the dust settles in the aftermath of the Kerman attacks, Iran finds itself at a critical juncture. The arrest of 35 individuals linked to the bombings sheds light on the intricate web of international connections involved in the planning and execution of the assault. The revelation of the mastermind’s identity, the dual nationality of one of the bombers, and the discrepancies in IS claims highlight the complexity of the situation. Tehran’s vow for revenge sets the stage for a challenging period ahead, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of this tragic event and strives to secure its borders against the ever-evolving threat of terrorism.