The seizure comes after weeks of attacks launched by Houthi militias. Iran's state media releases footage. Move likely to stoke tensions in the West Asian region. Watch to know more!

Tensions in West Asian Waters: Iranian Navy captures US' oil tanker

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the country's navy had seized an oil tanker in Gulf of Oman waters following "a court order" authorising the move, which is likely to flare up regional tensions.&nbsp;

The official IRNA news agency said: "The Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran seized an American oil tanker in the waters of the Gulf of Oman in accordance with a court order."&nbsp;

A report by the news agency Reuters noted that the tanker with Iraqi crude was destined for Turkey, and has been seized in retaliation for the confiscation last year of the same vessel and its oil by the United States.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-reacts-to-genocide-accusations-calls-south-africa-legal-arm-of-hamas-679055">Israel reacts to genocide accusations, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas</a>&nbsp;

This comes just a few weeks after the attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militias targeting Red Sea shipping routes.&nbsp;

Citing a statement by the Navy, the semi-official Fars news agency reported, "After the theft of Iranian oil by the United States last year, St Nikolas tanker was seized by Iran's Navy this morning with a judicial order ... it is en route to Iranian ports."&nbsp;

Last year, St Nikolas was seized by the US in a sanctions enforcement operation. It had happened when the tanker was sailing under a different name, Suez Rajan. Iran had condemned the move, warning the US that it would "not go unanswered".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uae-india-cepa-council-launched-to-strengthen-economic-bonds-679015">UAE-India CEPA Council launched to strengthen economic bonds</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Armed guards board oil tanker near Oman&nbsp;

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The British maritime security firm Ambrey had said earlier that St Nikolas was boarded by armed intruders as it sailed close to the Omani city of Sohar.&nbsp;

Its AIS tracking system was turned off as it headed in the direction of the Iranian port of Bandar-e-Jask.&nbsp;

As per the British firm, the incident started at about 03:30 GMT when "four or five" men boarded the Marshall Islands-flagged St Nikolas, around 50 nautical miles east of Sohar in Oman. The tanker was apparently headed towards Bandar-e-Jask in Iran.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the country's navy had seized an oil tanker in Gulf of Oman waters following "a court order" authorising the move, which is likely to flare up regional tensions.

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the country's navy had seized an oil tanker in Gulf of Oman waters following "a court order" authorising the move, which is likely to flare up regional tensions. The official IRNA news agency said: "The Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran seized an American oil tanker in the waters of the Gulf of Oman in accordance with a court order." A report by the news agency Reuters noted that the tanker with Iraqi crude was destined for Turkey, and has been seized in retaliation for the confiscation last year of the same vessel and its oil by the United States. Also read: Israel reacts to genocide accusations, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas This comes just a few weeks after the attacks by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi militias targeting Red Sea shipping routes. Citing a statement by the Navy, the semi-official Fars news agency reported, "After the theft of Iranian oil by the United States last year, St Nikolas tanker was seized by Iran's Navy this morning with a judicial order ... it is en route to Iranian ports." Last year, St Nikolas was seized by the US in a sanctions enforcement operation. It had happened when the tanker was sailing under a different name, Suez Rajan. Iran had condemned the move, warning the US that it would "not go unanswered". Also read: UAE-India CEPA Council launched to strengthen economic bonds Watch: Armed guards board oil tanker near Oman × The British maritime security firm Ambrey had said earlier that St Nikolas was boarded by armed intruders as it sailed close to the Omani city of Sohar. Its AIS tracking system was turned off as it headed in the direction of the Iranian port of Bandar-e-Jask. As per the British firm, the incident started at about 03:30 GMT when "four or five" men boarded the Marshall Islands-flagged St Nikolas, around 50 nautical miles east of Sohar in Oman. The tanker was apparently headed towards Bandar-e-Jask in Iran. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran Navy says seized oil tanker in Gulf of Oman

In a diplomatic move aimed at strengthening ties and addressing crucial issues, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is set to visit Iran on Monday, January 15. The visit marks a continuation of diplomatic engagements between the two nations, focusing on key topics such as the Chabahar port, Afghanistan, and recent developments in West Asia.

This visit comes on the heels of Dr Jaishankar's previous visits to Tehran in July and August 2021, where he held discussions with Iranian President Sayyid Ebrahim Raisi.

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EAM Jaishankar calls on Iran's new President Ebrahim Raisi <a href="https://twitter.com/raisi_com?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@raisi_com</a> in Tehran. First in person meet by the Indian side with new President of Iran. <a href="https://t.co/LmWUbkEpwh">https://t.co/LmWUbkEpwh</a> <a href="https://t.co/mqhAcPnIB5">pic.twitter.com/mqhAcPnIB5</a>
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Notably, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian reciprocated the diplomatic gesture with a visit to India in June 2022. During this visit, both nations signed the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty on Civil and Commercial Matters, solidifying their commitment to cooperation.

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A focal point of the ongoing collaboration is the Chabahar Port, envisioned by India and Iran as a major regional and international hub for the movement of humanitarian and commercial goods.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-lifts-visa-requirement-for-33-countries-including-india-saudi-arabia-669828">Iran lifts visa requirement for 33 countries, including India, Saudi Arabia</a>

Both nations continue to work closely towards realising this vision, emphasising the strategic importance of Chabahar in facilitating trade and connectivity.

The diplomatic rendezvous takes place against the backdrop of heightened tensions in West Asia.

The Israel-Hamas conflict continues to loom large after the October 7 terror attack by the Palestinian group Hamas in southern Israel led to Israel's retaliatory state of war in Gaza.

The situation further escalated with the US and UK strikes in Yemen, targeted Houthi positions after weeks of attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea by Houthis.

In a diplomatic move aimed at strengthening ties and addressing crucial issues, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is set to visit Iran on Monday, January 15.

In a diplomatic move aimed at strengthening ties and addressing crucial issues, India's External Affairs Minister, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, is set to visit Iran on Monday, January 15. The visit marks a continuation of diplomatic engagements between the two nations, focusing on key topics such as the Chabahar port, Afghanistan, and recent developments in West Asia. This visit comes on the heels of Dr Jaishankar's previous visits to Tehran in July and August 2021, where he held discussions with Iranian President Sayyid Ebrahim Raisi. EAM Jaishankar calls on Iran's new President Ebrahim Raisi @raisi_com in Tehran. First in person meet by the Indian side with new President of Iran. https://t.co/LmWUbkEpwh pic.twitter.com/mqhAcPnIB5 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) July 7, 2021 × Notably, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian reciprocated the diplomatic gesture with a visit to India in June 2022. During this visit, both nations signed the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty on Civil and Commercial Matters, solidifying their commitment to cooperation. Iran Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian reaches Delhi; is welcomed by MEA's Joint Secretary in PAI (Pak-Afg-Iran) division JP Singh. pic.twitter.com/XM794mv7YU — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 8, 2022 × A focal point of the ongoing collaboration is the Chabahar Port, envisioned by India and Iran as a major regional and international hub for the movement of humanitarian and commercial goods. Also read | Iran lifts visa requirement for 33 countries, including India, Saudi Arabia Both nations continue to work closely towards realising this vision, emphasising the strategic importance of Chabahar in facilitating trade and connectivity. The diplomatic rendezvous takes place against the backdrop of heightened tensions in West Asia. The Israel-Hamas conflict continues to loom large after the October 7 terror attack by the Palestinian group Hamas in southern Israel led to Israel's retaliatory state of war in Gaza. The situation further escalated with the US and UK strikes in Yemen, targeted Houthi positions after weeks of attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea by Houthis.

India's External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to visit Iran on Jan 15

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the intelligence ministry had identified a top suspect associated with the recent twin blasts that killed nearly 100 people and injured dozens. The suspect has been described as a ringleader and bomb

maker, The Associated Press reported.&nbsp;

The blasts rocked the Iranian city of Kerman, which is about 820 kilometres southeast of the capital, Tehran. The death toll from the attack rose to 94 on Thursday.

Iran previously said that two suicide bombers targeted a commemoration for Qasem Soleimani, an Iranian general slain in a 2020 US drone strike in Iraq on January 3.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-navy-says-seized-oil-tanker-off-oman-679038">Iran navy says seized oil tanker in Gulf of Oman</a>&nbsp;

Iran-based Tasnim news agency had reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were&nbsp;on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located. The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later.&nbsp;

As reported by the official IRNA news agency, a statement by the intelligence ministry noted that the main suspect who planned the bombing was a Tajik national known by his alias Abdollah Tajiki.&nbsp;

IRNA reported that the suspect had entered the country in mid-December by crossing the southeast border. He left two days before the attack&nbsp;after making the bombs.&nbsp;

Watch: Israeli strikes on central and southern Gaza&nbsp;

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The report also identified one of the bombers by his family name, Bozrov, stating that he was 24 years old and held Tajik and Israeli citizenship.&nbsp;

It further stated that he came to Iran by crossing the southern border following months of IS training in Afghanistan. It added that the authorities were still trying to identify the second suicide bomber.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-reacts-to-genocide-accusations-calls-south-africa-legal-arm-of-hamas-679055">Israel reacts to genocide accusations, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas</a>&nbsp;

The Islamic State jihadist group claimed responsibility for the twin bombings. In its claim, it had identified the two bombers as Omar al-Mowahed and Seif-Allah al-Mujahed.&nbsp;

So far, the Iranian authorities have arrested 35 people across several provinces with purported links to the bombings.&nbsp;

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the intelligence ministry had identified a top suspect associated with the recent twin blasts that killed nearly 100 people and injured dozens.

Iranian state media reported on Thursday (Jan 11) that the intelligence ministry had identified a top suspect associated with the recent twin blasts that killed nearly 100 people and injured dozens. The suspect has been described as a ringleader and bomb maker, The Associated Press reported. The blasts rocked the Iranian city of Kerman, which is about 820 kilometres southeast of the capital, Tehran. The death toll from the attack rose to 94 on Thursday. Iran previously said that two suicide bombers targeted a commemoration for Qasem Soleimani, an Iranian general slain in a 2020 US drone strike in Iraq on January 3. Also read: Iran navy says seized oil tanker in Gulf of Oman Iran-based Tasnim news agency had reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located. The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later. As reported by the official IRNA news agency, a statement by the intelligence ministry noted that the main suspect who planned the bombing was a Tajik national known by his alias Abdollah Tajiki. IRNA reported that the suspect had entered the country in mid-December by crossing the southeast border. He left two days before the attack after making the bombs. Watch: Israeli strikes on central and southern Gaza × The report also identified one of the bombers by his family name, Bozrov, stating that he was 24 years old and held Tajik and Israeli citizenship. It further stated that he came to Iran by crossing the southern border following months of IS training in Afghanistan. It added that the authorities were still trying to identify the second suicide bomber. Also read: Israel reacts to genocide accusations, calls South Africa 'legal arm' of Hamas The Islamic State jihadist group claimed responsibility for the twin bombings. In its claim, it had identified the two bombers as Omar al-Mowahed and Seif-Allah al-Mujahed. So far, the Iranian authorities have arrested 35 people across several provinces with purported links to the bombings.

Iran claims to have identified bomb maker behind twin blasts that killed dozens

In another incident that raises tensions in the maritime regions of West Asian, Iranian Navy has confirmed that it has taken control of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The US condemned what it called an “unlawful seizure” and demanded Iran “immediately release the ship and its crew”.

Iran navy seized oil tanker off Oman that was center of dispute with US

In another incident that raises tensions in the maritime regions of West Asian. Iranian Navy has confirmed that it has taken control of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman. The US condemned what it called an “unlawful seizure” and demanded Iran “immediately release the ship and its crew”.

Iran's navy seizes oil tanker off Oman in dispute with US

In another incident that raises tensions in the maritime regions of West Asian. Iranian Navy has confirmed that it has taken control of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman.

Heightened tensions in West Asian waters: Iran Navy seizes oil tanker in retaliatory move

Iranian navy has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Oman as a retaliation for "theft" of oil from the same ship by the United States, country's state media reported on Thursday (January 11). The state media reports came just hours after statement by British-navy maritime security agency saying that armed men had boarded St Nikolas, the Greek-owned ship which was flying a Marshall Islands flag. After Iranian navy seized the ship, it changed course towards Bandar-e-Jask in Iran.

The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said earlier that four or five "unauthorised boarders are reported to be wearing military-style black uniforms with black masks"

Confirmation from Iran's navy came later. The navy said that it indeed has seized the ship which was previously called Suez Rajan.

"The Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran seized an American oil tanker in the waters of the Gulf of Oman in accordance with a court order," the official IRNA news agency said.

IRNA report said that seizure of the ship was in retaliation for "violation committed by the Suez Rajan ship... and the theft of Iranian oil by the United States."

Iran has in past responded in tit-for-tat manner after Iranian oil shipments were seized. US sanctions seek to reduce Iran's energy exports by targetting the country's oil and petrochemical sales.

Iran and the US had reached landmark nuclear deal under former US president Barack Obama. But his successor Donald Trump withdrew US out of the deal. This reimposed crippling US sanctions on Iran.

AFP quoted Ambrey, a British maritime risk company which said that personnel who boarded the ship covered cameras &nbsp;on the ship.The company added that a security officer "reported hearing unknown voices over the phone along with the master's voice".

Empire Navigation, the Greece-based company which manages the oil tanker told AFP that communication with the ship had been lost. The company said there were 19 crew members on the ship - 19 filipinos and one Greek.

The company said further that the ship loaded with 145,000 tonnes of crude oil in Basra, Iraq and was due to reach Aliaga in Turkey via the Suez Canal.

As per Ambrey, the ship was renamed secretly and was previously prosecuted and even fined for carrying Iranian oil. The ship was confiscated at that time by US authorities.

Iranian navy's public relations office, as quoted by IRNA, said that the oil tanker was being transferred to the "ports of the Islamic republic for delivery to the judicial authorities".

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian navy has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Oman as a retaliation for "theft" of oil from the same ship by the United States, country's state media reported on Thursday (January 11).

Iranian navy has seized an oil tanker off the coast of Oman as a retaliation for "theft" of oil from the same ship by the United States, country's state media reported on Thursday (January 11). The state media reports came just hours after statement by British-navy maritime security agency saying that armed men had boarded St Nikolas, the Greek-owned ship which was flying a Marshall Islands flag. After Iranian navy seized the ship, it changed course towards Bandar-e-Jask in Iran. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said earlier that four or five "unauthorised boarders are reported to be wearing military-style black uniforms with black masks" Confirmation from Iran's navy came later. The navy said that it indeed has seized the ship which was previously called Suez Rajan. "The Navy of the Islamic Republic of Iran seized an American oil tanker in the waters of the Gulf of Oman in accordance with a court order," the official IRNA news agency said. IRNA report said that seizure of the ship was in retaliation for "violation committed by the Suez Rajan ship... and the theft of Iranian oil by the United States." Iran has in past responded in tit-for-tat manner after Iranian oil shipments were seized. US sanctions seek to reduce Iran's energy exports by targetting the country's oil and petrochemical sales. Iran and the US had reached landmark nuclear deal under former US president Barack Obama. But his successor Donald Trump withdrew US out of the deal. This reimposed crippling US sanctions on Iran. AFP quoted Ambrey, a British maritime risk company which said that personnel who boarded the ship covered cameras on the ship.The company added that a security officer "reported hearing unknown voices over the phone along with the master's voice". Empire Navigation, the Greece-based company which manages the oil tanker told AFP that communication with the ship had been lost. The company said there were 19 crew members on the ship - 19 filipinos and one Greek. The company said further that the ship loaded with 145,000 tonnes of crude oil in Basra, Iraq and was due to reach Aliaga in Turkey via the Suez Canal. As per Ambrey, the ship was renamed secretly and was previously prosecuted and even fined for carrying Iranian oil. The ship was confiscated at that time by US authorities. Iranian navy's public relations office, as quoted by IRNA, said that the oil tanker was being transferred to the "ports of the Islamic republic for delivery to the judicial authorities". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran navy seizes oil tanker previously seized by US authorities

In Iran, a woman was whipped 74 times for "violating public morals" by posting a photo with her head uncovered. The woman, identified as 33-year-old Roya Heshmati, was also fined for not covering her head, said the Iranian judiciary.

<h2>Encouraging permissiveness</h2>

On the Judiciary's Mizan online website, a statement posted late on Saturday (Jan 6) said: "The convicted, Roya Heshmati, encouraged permissiveness (by appearing) disgracefully in busy public places in Tehran."

"Her penalty of 74 strokes of the lash was carried out in accordance with the law and with sharia," and "for violating public morals," added Mizan, as reported by news agency AFP.

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A Kurdish human rights organisation, Hengaw, has identified Heshmati as a woman of Kurdish origin, who is an outspoken critic of the Islamic regime's hijab law.

Talking to Shargh daily, a popular reformist newspaper, Heshmati's lawyer Maziar Tatai said that the woman was arrested in April "for publishing a photo on social media without wearing a headscarf."

She was also ordered to pay a fine of 12 million rials (around $285) for "not wearing the Muslim veil in public".

Tatai, as per Entekhab, also alleged that the charges against Heshmati were changed several times. Throughout the process at different times, she was charged with "propaganda against the regime," "being in the streets without a religious hijab," "harming public modesty," "producing vulgar content," and "encouraging people to commit corruption".

<h2>'I would not yield'</h2>

The defiant woman, as per The Jerusalem Post, removed her hijab upon entering the court where her flogging was to take place.&nbsp;

Even though her lawyer and an employee cautioned her and asked her to don the headscarf "to avoid trouble," Heshmati said that she "came specifically for the lashes, and I would not yield".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/that-one-puff-with-rogan-elon-musk-responds-to-drug-use-claims-amid-backlash-677622">'That one puff with Rogan': Elon Musk responds to drug use claims amid backlash</a>

She was even ordered to put on the hijab by the officer who carried out her flogging. However, despite threats of more severe whipping and an additional 74 lashes, Heshamti refused to do so.

"I maintained my stance and did not wear the hijab," she said, as per an account of the flogging shared by Hengaw.

She described the room where she was flogged as a "fully equipped medieval torture chamber."

(With inputs from agencies)

In Iran, a woman was whipped 74 times for "violating public morals" by posting a photo with her head uncovered. The woman, identified as 33-year-old Roya Heshmati, was also fined for not covering her head, said the Iranian judiciary.

In Iran, a woman was whipped 74 times for "violating public morals" by posting a photo with her head uncovered. The woman, identified as 33-year-old Roya Heshmati, was also fined for not covering her head, said the Iranian judiciary. Encouraging permissiveness On the Judiciary's Mizan online website, a statement posted late on Saturday (Jan 6) said: "The convicted, Roya Heshmati, encouraged permissiveness (by appearing) disgracefully in busy public places in Tehran." "Her penalty of 74 strokes of the lash was carried out in accordance with the law and with sharia," and "for violating public morals," added Mizan, as reported by news agency AFP. Also read | 'State-sanctioned sexual assault': UK police allowing trans-identifying officers to strip-search women A Kurdish human rights organisation, Hengaw, has identified Heshmati as a woman of Kurdish origin, who is an outspoken critic of the Islamic regime's hijab law. Talking to Shargh daily, a popular reformist newspaper, Heshmati's lawyer Maziar Tatai said that the woman was arrested in April "for publishing a photo on social media without wearing a headscarf." She was also ordered to pay a fine of 12 million rials (around $285) for "not wearing the Muslim veil in public". Tatai, as per Entekhab, also alleged that the charges against Heshmati were changed several times. Throughout the process at different times, she was charged with "propaganda against the regime," "being in the streets without a religious hijab," "harming public modesty," "producing vulgar content," and "encouraging people to commit corruption". 'I would not yield' The defiant woman, as per The Jerusalem Post, removed her hijab upon entering the court where her flogging was to take place. Even though her lawyer and an employee cautioned her and asked her to don the headscarf "to avoid trouble," Heshmati said that she "came specifically for the lashes, and I would not yield". Also read | 'That one puff with Rogan': Elon Musk responds to drug use claims amid backlash She was even ordered to put on the hijab by the officer who carried out her flogging. However, despite threats of more severe whipping and an additional 74 lashes, Heshamti refused to do so. "I maintained my stance and did not wear the hijab," she said, as per an account of the flogging shared by Hengaw. She described the room where she was flogged as a "fully equipped medieval torture chamber." (With inputs from agencies)

'Violating public morals': Iran flogs woman 74 times for posting photo without hijab

An anti-hijab advocate in Iran, Roya Heshmati, has been lashed 74 times by Iranian authorities on charges of “injury to public chastity" for not wearing the mandatory head covering.

Iran: Woman whipped 74 times for not covering her head

Four days&nbsp;after a devastating twin bomb attack rocked southern Iran, claiming the lives of at least 91 people during a memorial ceremony near the tomb of Qasem Soleimani, a video has surfaced online.

The footage&nbsp;shows&nbsp;a chilling glimpse into the moment one of the bombs exploded on January 3.

The incident occurred on the fourth death anniversary of the former Revolutionary Guards chief who was killed in a US drone strike in Iraq in January 2020.

The footage begins on a bustling street, capturing a bus slowly maneuvering a turn. Meanwhile, everyone else in the surroundings was carrying out their business as usual.

Suddenly, a colossal blast erupts in the background, shrouding the area in dust and smoke. Individuals present in the area can be seen seeking cover and running in a state of panic.&nbsp;

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The Islamic State jihadist group on January 4 claimed responsibility for the twin bombings.&nbsp;The militant, Sunni Muslim group issued a statement on its&nbsp;Telegram channels.

It revealed that two members of the Islamic State had activated explosive belts within the crowd assembled at the cemetery in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman.

In a swift response, at least 11 suspects were apprehended across six Iranian provinces in connection with the bombings.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/merchant-vessel-approached-by-six-craft-near-yemen-says-uk-677298">Merchant vessel approached by six craft near Yemen, says UK</a>

Iran's intelligence ministry reported that security forces detained two individuals in Kerman for assisting the suicide bombers, one of whom is reportedly of Tajik nationality. The identity of the second attacker remains under investigation.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Watch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Watch</a>: First video capturing the moment of the second terrorist explosion in Kerman, Iran. <a href="https://t.co/uvsKlo59Ms">pic.twitter.com/uvsKlo59Ms</a>
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Additionally, nine others, located in various parts of Iran, were arrested over alleged links to the bombings.

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The attack was the deadliest since the protests that eventually led to the Iranian Revolution in 1979. It resulted in the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

During 1978, there were various incidents of civil unrest, clashes between protesters and security forces, and acts of violence.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four days after a devastating twin bomb attack rocked southern Iran, claiming the lives of at least 91 people during a memorial ceremony near the tomb of Qasem Soleimani, a video has surfaced online.

Four days after a devastating twin bomb attack rocked southern Iran, claiming the lives of at least 91 people during a memorial ceremony near the tomb of Qasem Soleimani, a video has surfaced online. The footage shows a chilling glimpse into the moment one of the bombs exploded on January 3. The incident occurred on the fourth death anniversary of the former Revolutionary Guards chief who was killed in a US drone strike in Iraq in January 2020. The footage begins on a bustling street, capturing a bus slowly maneuvering a turn. Meanwhile, everyone else in the surroundings was carrying out their business as usual. Suddenly, a colossal blast erupts in the background, shrouding the area in dust and smoke. Individuals present in the area can be seen seeking cover and running in a state of panic. Also Read | China imposes sanctions on five US military manufacturers in retaliation over arms sales to Taiwan The Islamic State jihadist group on January 4 claimed responsibility for the twin bombings. The militant, Sunni Muslim group issued a statement on its Telegram channels. It revealed that two members of the Islamic State had activated explosive belts within the crowd assembled at the cemetery in the southeastern Iranian city of Kerman. In a swift response, at least 11 suspects were apprehended across six Iranian provinces in connection with the bombings. Also Read | Merchant vessel approached by six craft near Yemen, says UK Iran's intelligence ministry reported that security forces detained two individuals in Kerman for assisting the suicide bombers, one of whom is reportedly of Tajik nationality. The identity of the second attacker remains under investigation. #Watch: First video capturing the moment of the second terrorist explosion in Kerman, Iran. pic.twitter.com/uvsKlo59Ms — Open Source Intel (@Osint613) January 6, 2024 × Additionally, nine others, located in various parts of Iran, were arrested over alleged links to the bombings. Watch | Japan Earthquake Aftermath: Death count crosses 120, over 200 people missing × The attack was the deadliest since the protests that eventually led to the Iranian Revolution in 1979. It resulted in the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran. During 1978, there were various incidents of civil unrest, clashes between protesters and security forces, and acts of violence. (With inputs from agencies)

VIDEO | Horrifying footage shows Iran bomb attack on Soleimani's death anniversary

Iranian woman Roya Heshmati punished with 74 lashes for violating public morals

Four days after a devastating twin bomb attack rocked southern Iran, claiming the lives of at least 91 people during a memorial ceremony near the tomb of Qasem Soleimani, a video has surfaced online. The footage shows a chilling glimpse into the moment one of the bombs exploded on January 3.

Iran: State media airs video of twin blasts near Qasem Soleimani's grave

Iran's state media airs video of twin blasts near Qasem Soleimani's grave

Iran's security forces arrested 11 people over involvement in the twin bomb blasts that claimed the lives of around 100 people attending a memorial service for a slain military commander, the authorities said on Friday (Jan 5).

Iran's intelligence ministry released a statement saying that the security forces detained two people for helping the suicide bombers in Kerman.

Nine others, who were based in several parts of Iran, were also arrested over alleged links to the bombings.

"Nine other members of the terrorist group's support network and its associates were identified and arrested in six provinces," the ministry said in reference to IS.&nbsp;

The ministry, further revealing details about the nationality of the suicide bombers said that one of them was a Tajik citizen, whereas the identity of the other had yet to be determined. &nbsp;

The blasts were the deadliest attacks to rock the country since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

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<h2>Raisi vows to avenge killings</h2>

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who joined the mourners in the southern city of Kerman on Friday for the funerals of 89 people who were killed in the twin bombings, vowed to avenge the killings saying, "Our forces will decide on the place and time to take action".

"We will find you wherever you are," Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami said at the funeral.

The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday (Jan 4) claimed responsibility for twin bombings.

In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;

The death toll earlier was reported to be 103, but Iranian authorities on Thursday said blasts killed 84 people, revising the toll.&nbsp;

Tehran's official news agency IRNA quoted Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi as saying that "according to forensic statistics, the number of martyrs from this incident has been announced as 84 so far".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's security forces arrested 11 people over involvement in the twin bomb blasts that claimed the lives of around 100 people attending a memorial service for a slain military commander, the authorities said on Friday (Jan 5).

Iran's security forces arrested 11 people over involvement in the twin bomb blasts that claimed the lives of around 100 people attending a memorial service for a slain military commander, the authorities said on Friday (Jan 5). Iran's intelligence ministry released a statement saying that the security forces detained two people for helping the suicide bombers in Kerman. Nine others, who were based in several parts of Iran, were also arrested over alleged links to the bombings. "Nine other members of the terrorist group's support network and its associates were identified and arrested in six provinces," the ministry said in reference to IS. The ministry, further revealing details about the nationality of the suicide bombers said that one of them was a Tajik citizen, whereas the identity of the other had yet to be determined. The blasts were the deadliest attacks to rock the country since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Also read: Ukraine: After Bakhmut, it's Marinka. Is Russia close to taking control of entire Donbas? Raisi vows to avenge killings Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who joined the mourners in the southern city of Kerman on Friday for the funerals of 89 people who were killed in the twin bombings, vowed to avenge the killings saying, "Our forces will decide on the place and time to take action". "We will find you wherever you are," Revolutionary Guards chief Hossein Salami said at the funeral. The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday (Jan 4) claimed responsibility for twin bombings. In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani. The death toll earlier was reported to be 103, but Iranian authorities on Thursday said blasts killed 84 people, revising the toll. Tehran's official news agency IRNA quoted Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi as saying that "according to forensic statistics, the number of martyrs from this incident has been announced as 84 so far". (With inputs from agencies)

Iran arrests 11 suspects over involvement in twin blasts, Raisi vows to avenge killings

Iran blamed Israel and the United States on Wednesday for twin bomb blasts that killed at least 95 people in the country's south, ripping through a crowd commemorating Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani four years after his death in a US strike.

Iraq labels US strikes as blatant aggression, Pentagon calls it a 'self defence measure' | World DNA

Terror group Islamic State has claimed the responsibility of the twin blasts in iran that killed at least 84 people. The explosions hit the procession marking the fourth death anniversary of Iranian General Qasim Soulemani on Wednesday. Claiming the attack through Telegram, the group said two of its members carried out the suicide bombings by "activating their explosives vests" among the crowds who had come to honour Soleiman.

ISIS says two members carried out suicide blasts at Soleimani Memorial

Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed force on Thursday (Jan 4) condemned the United States for launching a drone strike that killed a military commander of the ex-paramilitary force.

"A drone targeted the logistical support headquarters of Hashed al-Shaabi," mainly pro-Iranian former paramilitary units integrated into the Iraqi armed forces, said the security official.

The official further said that the drone attack killed two more members of their militia group.

The strike killed "two members and wounded seven others", said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

Harakat al-Nujaba, one of the Hashed's factions, released a statement saying that "the deputy commander of operations for Baghdad, Mushtaq Talib al-Saidi" had been "martyred in a US strike".

As per news agency AFP, there was no immediate response from the United States officials.

The strike comes in the midst of heightened regional tensions since the war broke out between US ally Israel and Iran-backed Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip after the Palestinian militant group launched unprecedented attacks against Tel Aviv on Oct 7.

US armed forces deployed in Iraq and neighbouring country Syria have faced a surge in the number of attacks ever since then.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-us-state-capitols-shut-down-briefly-after-receiving-hoax-bomb-threats-676417">Several US state capitols shut down briefly after receiving hoax bomb threats</a>

According to news agency AFP, videos that were shared on a Telegram channel which was linked to the militia group Hashed, showed a plume of smoke rising from where the drone struck.

<h2>Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike</h2>

The Iraqi government accused the US-led anti-jihadist coalition of the strike and further called it "a blatant aggression" as well as "a dangerous escalation and assault".

"The Iraqi armed forces hold the forces of the international coalition responsible for this attack," Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani's office said in a statement.&nbsp;

<h2>Attacks against US targets</h2>

Washington has till now counted more than a hundred attacks that were aimed at the US targets in Syria and Iraq since mid-October 2023.

Out of these assaults, many have been claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose US backing for Israel in the Gaza war.

The United States has around 2,500 troops deployed in Iraq and approximately 900 in Syria as a part of a multinational coalition fighting the Islamic State group.&nbsp;

The United States military has responded to recent attacks by launching air strikes targeting sites used by Iran and its proxy forces in Iraq and Syria, including Hashed sites.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed force on Thursday (Jan 4) condemned the United States for launching a drone strike that killed a military commander of the ex-paramilitary force.

Iraq's pro-Iran Hashed force on Thursday (Jan 4) condemned the United States for launching a drone strike that killed a military commander of the ex-paramilitary force. "A drone targeted the logistical support headquarters of Hashed al-Shaabi," mainly pro-Iranian former paramilitary units integrated into the Iraqi armed forces, said the security official. The official further said that the drone attack killed two more members of their militia group. The strike killed "two members and wounded seven others", said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Harakat al-Nujaba, one of the Hashed's factions, released a statement saying that "the deputy commander of operations for Baghdad, Mushtaq Talib al-Saidi" had been "martyred in a US strike". As per news agency AFP, there was no immediate response from the United States officials. The strike comes in the midst of heightened regional tensions since the war broke out between US ally Israel and Iran-backed Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip after the Palestinian militant group launched unprecedented attacks against Tel Aviv on Oct 7. US armed forces deployed in Iraq and neighbouring country Syria have faced a surge in the number of attacks ever since then. Also read: Several US state capitols shut down briefly after receiving hoax bomb threats According to news agency AFP, videos that were shared on a Telegram channel which was linked to the militia group Hashed, showed a plume of smoke rising from where the drone struck. Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike The Iraqi government accused the US-led anti-jihadist coalition of the strike and further called it "a blatant aggression" as well as "a dangerous escalation and assault". "The Iraqi armed forces hold the forces of the international coalition responsible for this attack," Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani's office said in a statement. Attacks against US targets Washington has till now counted more than a hundred attacks that were aimed at the US targets in Syria and Iraq since mid-October 2023. Out of these assaults, many have been claimed by the Islamic Resistance in Iraq, which is a loose alliance of Iran-linked armed groups that oppose US backing for Israel in the Gaza war. The United States has around 2,500 troops deployed in Iraq and approximately 900 in Syria as a part of a multinational coalition fighting the Islamic State group. The United States military has responded to recent attacks by launching air strikes targeting sites used by Iran and its proxy forces in Iraq and Syria, including Hashed sites. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad drone strike, calls it 'blatant aggression'

Iran blasts: Islamic States Khorasan remains a viable terrorist threat, says US

The twin blasts in Iran's southern province of Kerman have left open wounds of those who were mourning the killing of Qasem Soleimani, the Iranian General,&nbsp;one of the most powerful figures in Iran and once only second to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

The blasts on Wednesday (Jan 3) that killed at least 103 people, which Iranian officials say are caused by "terrorist attacks", hold a major symbolism as they took place on the fateful day when Soleimani was killed four years ago in a US-orchestrated drone strike.

Soleimani shaped the conflicts across the Middle East for years to come, including the rise of the Iran-backed Houthi militia, the militant group which marked Soleimani's death last year by erecting larger-than-life figures of the killed commander.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-another-blast-heard-near-grave-of-general-qasem-soleimani-676221">Iran says 73 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave</a>

Soleimani led the al-Quds Force in the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the same force&nbsp;which was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US.&nbsp;

The mighty Iranian general called the shots and kept the proxy militias across the Middle East at his fingertips, with one journalist suggesting that Soleimani "matters in death as much as in life."&nbsp;

Proxy militia across Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon took command from Soleimani and acted upon it.

United States' targeted drone strike at Baghdad International Airport in January 2020 killed IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/met-office-declares-2023-as-uks-second-warmest-year-on-record-676216">Met office declares 2023 as UK's second warmest year on record</a>

The US government at the time justified the strike suggesting that Soleimani was actively planning imminent attacks on American interests in the Middle East and that the decision was framed as a preemptive defensive measure to protect US personnel.

Then US President Donald Trump, as the Commander-in-Chief, authorised the strike which eliminated Soleimani. Trump had said that the action was taken to 'stop a war'. Iran at the UN&nbsp;likened the move to 'opening a war.'

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-blast-terror-attack-during-ceremony-near-general-soleimanis-grave-676249">Iran blast: Terror attack during ceremony near General Soleimani's grave</a>

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The killing of Qasem Soleimani raised concerns about a potential escalation in tensions between the US and Iran. The cause of the twin blasts is still unclear while Iranian officials say that they were "terrorist attacks".&nbsp;

The airstrike prompted varied international reactions. Some nations expressed concern about the escalation of hostilities. The latest twin attacks come&nbsp;against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war and Iran-funded Houthi militia attacks on Red Sea shipping routes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The death anniversary of the slain general also came at a time when&nbsp;the attacks on US bases in Iraq is becoming rampant, something that the US had accused Soleimani of orchestrating. US Department of Defence accused Soleimani of attack on allied bases in Iraq, including an air strike that resulted in the killing of a US contractor and injured as many as four service members, as per media reports.&nbsp;

<h2>Fight against ISIS</h2>

Soleimani was also known as the "Shadow Commander" and "Dark Knight". He had a particular enmity with Iraq's Saddam Hussein and even as Iran and Iraq were archrivals, Soleimani held a significant clout in Baghdad.

He also lent his support to Lebanon's Hezbollah as well as backed Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Soleimani rose through the ranks in the Iranian military and even as US and Iran did not align, the countries did fight together against ISIS.

With this, Soleimani had his share of credit in the fight against the ISIS terror network. Reports quoting experts said that Soleimani's killing thwarted these efforts to root out ISIS from the region and US move to kill the Iranian general was a win for ISIS.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The twin blasts in Iran's southern province of Kerman have left open wounds of those who were mourning the killing of Qasem Soleimani, the Iranian General, one of the most powerful figures in Iran and once only second to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The twin blasts in Iran's southern province of Kerman have left open wounds of those who were mourning the killing of Qasem Soleimani, the Iranian General, one of the most powerful figures in Iran and once only second to Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The blasts on Wednesday (Jan 3) that killed at least 103 people, which Iranian officials say are caused by "terrorist attacks", hold a major symbolism as they took place on the fateful day when Soleimani was killed four years ago in a US-orchestrated drone strike. Soleimani shaped the conflicts across the Middle East for years to come, including the rise of the Iran-backed Houthi militia, the militant group which marked Soleimani's death last year by erecting larger-than-life figures of the killed commander. Also Read | Iran says 73 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani's grave Soleimani led the al-Quds Force in the Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC), the same force which was designated as a foreign terrorist organisation by the US. The mighty Iranian general called the shots and kept the proxy militias across the Middle East at his fingertips, with one journalist suggesting that Soleimani "matters in death as much as in life." Proxy militia across Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon took command from Soleimani and acted upon it. United States' targeted drone strike at Baghdad International Airport in January 2020 killed IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani. Also Read | Met office declares 2023 as UK's second warmest year on record The US government at the time justified the strike suggesting that Soleimani was actively planning imminent attacks on American interests in the Middle East and that the decision was framed as a preemptive defensive measure to protect US personnel. Then US President Donald Trump, as the Commander-in-Chief, authorised the strike which eliminated Soleimani. Trump had said that the action was taken to 'stop a war'. Iran at the UN likened the move to 'opening a war.' Watch | Iran blast: Terror attack during ceremony near General Soleimani's grave × The killing of Qasem Soleimani raised concerns about a potential escalation in tensions between the US and Iran. The cause of the twin blasts is still unclear while Iranian officials say that they were "terrorist attacks". The airstrike prompted varied international reactions. Some nations expressed concern about the escalation of hostilities. The latest twin attacks come against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war and Iran-funded Houthi militia attacks on Red Sea shipping routes. The death anniversary of the slain general also came at a time when the attacks on US bases in Iraq is becoming rampant, something that the US had accused Soleimani of orchestrating. US Department of Defence accused Soleimani of attack on allied bases in Iraq, including an air strike that resulted in the killing of a US contractor and injured as many as four service members, as per media reports. Fight against ISIS Soleimani was also known as the "Shadow Commander" and "Dark Knight". He had a particular enmity with Iraq's Saddam Hussein and even as Iran and Iraq were archrivals, Soleimani held a significant clout in Baghdad. He also lent his support to Lebanon's Hezbollah as well as backed Syrian President Bashar Assad. Soleimani rose through the ranks in the Iranian military and even as US and Iran did not align, the countries did fight together against ISIS. With this, Soleimani had his share of credit in the fight against the ISIS terror network. Reports quoting experts said that Soleimani's killing thwarted these efforts to root out ISIS from the region and US move to kill the Iranian general was a win for ISIS. (With inputs from agencies)

Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East

After the twin attacks on the fourth death anniversary of slain Iranian general Qasem Soleimani&nbsp;shook Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3), reactions have started to trickle in, with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi terming the "terrorist attacks" as "heinous".

At least 103 people have been killed and 140 others injured in the twin blasts near Soleimani's grave.&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin, who holds good relations with Iran and held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Raisi in the first week of December 2023, has also expressed shock over the incident.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-qasem-soleimani-the-mighty-iranian-general-who-controlled-proxy-militias-across-middle-east-676271">Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East</a>

He extended his condolences in a letter to Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei where he said, "The killing of peaceful people visiting the cemetery is shocking in its cruelty and cynicism."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-another-blast-heard-near-grave-of-general-qasem-soleimani-676221">Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave</a>

United States had killed Soleimani in a drone strike at Baghdad International Airport in January 2020. Fast forward to today, the US alleges that Iran is playing a key role in supplying drones to Russia to back the nation against its war against Ukraine.&nbsp; A quick reaction from Putin was everyone's guess.&nbsp;

<h2>Bombs detonated via remote control&nbsp;</h2>

Iran's Tasnim News Agency citing sources said that the bombs were detonated using a remote control. "Two bags carrying bombs went off," the agency report added.&nbsp;

The footage in the wake of the attack, Iran's deadliest since the 1979 uprising which resulted in the establishment of the Islamic Republic, was soon shared on social media platforms. It showed crowds fleeing from the incident site to seek safety for themselves.

Following the attack, Iran's security personnel cordoned off the area as some of the visuals that poured in from Iran's state TV showed victims covered in blood and lying on the ground.

Ambulances and rescue personnel are on the site to "alleviate the impact of this cowardly criminal act".

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/blasts-near-iranian-guards-commander-soleimanis-tomb-676293">Blasts near Iranian guards commander Soleimani's tomb</a>

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More leaders are yet to react to the tragic incident that killed over a hundred individuals during a procession&nbsp;near the Saheb al-Zaman mosque in the southern city of Kerman.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After the twin attacks on the fourth death anniversary of slain Iranian general Qasem Soleimani shook Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3), reactions have started to trickle in, with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi terming the "terrorist attacks" as "heinous".

After the twin attacks on the fourth death anniversary of slain Iranian general Qasem Soleimani shook Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3), reactions have started to trickle in, with Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi terming the "terrorist attacks" as "heinous". At least 103 people have been killed and 140 others injured in the twin blasts near Soleimani's grave. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who holds good relations with Iran and held a meeting with his Iranian counterpart Raisi in the first week of December 2023, has also expressed shock over the incident. Also Read | Who was Qasem Soleimani? The mighty Iranian general who controlled proxy militias across Middle East He extended his condolences in a letter to Raisi and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei where he said, "The killing of peaceful people visiting the cemetery is shocking in its cruelty and cynicism." Also Read | Iran says 103 killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave United States had killed Soleimani in a drone strike at Baghdad International Airport in January 2020. Fast forward to today, the US alleges that Iran is playing a key role in supplying drones to Russia to back the nation against its war against Ukraine. A quick reaction from Putin was everyone's guess. Bombs detonated via remote control Iran's Tasnim News Agency citing sources said that the bombs were detonated using a remote control. "Two bags carrying bombs went off," the agency report added. The footage in the wake of the attack, Iran's deadliest since the 1979 uprising which resulted in the establishment of the Islamic Republic, was soon shared on social media platforms. It showed crowds fleeing from the incident site to seek safety for themselves. Following the attack, Iran's security personnel cordoned off the area as some of the visuals that poured in from Iran's state TV showed victims covered in blood and lying on the ground. Ambulances and rescue personnel are on the site to "alleviate the impact of this cowardly criminal act". Watch | Blasts near Iranian guards commander Soleimani's tomb × More leaders are yet to react to the tragic incident that killed over a hundred individuals during a procession near the Saheb al-Zaman mosque in the southern city of Kerman. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran twin blasts: Putin in shock, Raisi terms terrorist attacks ‘heinous’

The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday (Jan 4) claimed responsibility for twin bombings that killed 84 people&nbsp;in Iran a day before.&nbsp;

In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave&nbsp;in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani.&nbsp;

The death toll earlier was reported to be 103, but Iranian authorities on Thursday said blasts killed 84 people, revising the toll.&nbsp;

Tehran's official news agency IRNA quoted Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi as saying that "according to forensic statistics, the number of martyrs from this incident has been announced as 84 so far".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iraq-accuses-us-led-coalition-of-baghdad-strike-calls-it-blatant-aggression-676570">Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike, calls it 'blatant aggression'</a>&nbsp;

Jafar Miadfar, who is the head of&nbsp;Iran's emergency services, also confirmed the revised toll as he said that the earlier tally was due to the fact that some bodies had been dismembered and counted "several times".&nbsp;

The explosions took place on the anniversary of Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020 as hundreds of people were gathered to mark the occasion.&nbsp;

Iran-based Tasnim news agency reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were packed on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located. The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later.&nbsp;

Soleimani was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He was the commander of the Quds Force, which is an IRGC division primarily responsible for extraterritorial and clandestine military operations, from 1998 until his death. He was killed in a US drone strike just outside Baghdad airport. &nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hezbollah-source-says-local-chief-among-four-killed-in-south-lebanon-676604">Hezbollah source says local chief among four killed in south Lebanon</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;West Asia: Israel stares at wider conflict&nbsp;

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<h2>Tensions rise in West Asia&nbsp;</h2>

The Israel-Hamas war has already escalated tensions in West Asia, and the recent attacks in Lebanon and Iran have added fuel to the fire.&nbsp;

The two explosions in Iran have been labelled a "terrorist attack" by state media and regional authorities, which sparked fears of a widening conflict in the region. In the immediate implications, global markets were rattled and oil prices jumped more than three per cent.&nbsp;

The Iranian president's political deputy, Mohammad Jamshidi wrote on X: "Washington says USA and Israel had no role in terrorist attack in Kerman, Iran. Really? A fox smells its own lair first."&nbsp;

"Make no mistake. The responsibility for this crime lies with the US and Zionist regimes (Israel) and terrorism is just a tool," he added.&nbsp;

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed "evil and criminal enemies" of the country for the attack and vowed a "harsh response".&nbsp;

President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the "heinous" crime as the Islamic Republic of Iran declared Thursday a national day of mourning.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday (Jan 4) claimed responsibility for twin bombings that killed 84 people in Iran a day before. In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani.

The Islamic State jihadist group on Thursday (Jan 4) claimed responsibility for twin bombings that killed 84 people in Iran a day before. In a statement on Telegram, the group said two of its members "activated their explosives vests" at a gathering near the grave in the southern city of Kerman of slain Revolutionary Guards general Qasem Soleimani. The death toll earlier was reported to be 103, but Iranian authorities on Thursday said blasts killed 84 people, revising the toll. Tehran's official news agency IRNA quoted Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi as saying that "according to forensic statistics, the number of martyrs from this incident has been announced as 84 so far". Also read: Iraq accuses US-led coalition of Baghdad strike, calls it 'blatant aggression' Jafar Miadfar, who is the head of Iran's emergency services, also confirmed the revised toll as he said that the earlier tally was due to the fact that some bodies had been dismembered and counted "several times". The explosions took place on the anniversary of Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020 as hundreds of people were gathered to mark the occasion. Iran-based Tasnim news agency reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were packed on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located. The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later. Soleimani was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He was the commander of the Quds Force, which is an IRGC division primarily responsible for extraterritorial and clandestine military operations, from 1998 until his death. He was killed in a US drone strike just outside Baghdad airport. Also read: Hezbollah source says local chief among four killed in south Lebanon Watch: West Asia: Israel stares at wider conflict × Tensions rise in West Asia The Israel-Hamas war has already escalated tensions in West Asia, and the recent attacks in Lebanon and Iran have added fuel to the fire. The two explosions in Iran have been labelled a "terrorist attack" by state media and regional authorities, which sparked fears of a widening conflict in the region. In the immediate implications, global markets were rattled and oil prices jumped more than three per cent. The Iranian president's political deputy, Mohammad Jamshidi wrote on X: "Washington says USA and Israel had no role in terrorist attack in Kerman, Iran. Really? A fox smells its own lair first." "Make no mistake. The responsibility for this crime lies with the US and Zionist regimes (Israel) and terrorism is just a tool," he added. Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed "evil and criminal enemies" of the country for the attack and vowed a "harsh response". President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the "heinous" crime as the Islamic Republic of Iran declared Thursday a national day of mourning. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran twin blasts: Islamic State jihadist group claims responsibility for bombings

Two explosions caused by 'terrorist attacks' killed at least 95 people and wounded scores at a ceremony in Iran to commemorate top commander Qassem Soleimani who was killed by a US drone in 2020, Iranian officials said on Wednesday.

Iran twin blasts: At least 95 killed in blasts at Qassem Soleimani memorial

Iran blames US & Israel's role in twin blast, vows harsh response

Iran blames Israel & US for deadly blasts near Qasem Soleimani's tomb

The BRICS club of emerging-market countries is expected to double on January 1st when Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Ethiopia, and Egypt join the group. Meanwhile, Russia has taken over the Presidency of the BRICS.

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At least 84 people&nbsp; were killed and more than 140 others&nbsp;injured in Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3) in twin blasts that took place in quick succession near the grave of late general Qasem Soleimani, state television reported.&nbsp;&nbsp;

IRNA said 141 people were wounded in the blasts with some "in critical condition".&nbsp;

The explosions took place on the anniversary of Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020. The state media quoted a local official in the Kerman province as saying that the "blasts were caused by terrorist attacks".&nbsp;

According to the semi-official Nournews, "Several gas canisters exploded on the road leading to the cemetery".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-impersonator-joins-gaza-war-poses-with-pm-netanyahu-faces-weapons-charges-676172">Israeli civilian impersonator joins Gaza war, poses with PM Netanyahu, faces weapons theft charges</a>&nbsp;

Hundreds of people were present at the cemetery, and state TV showed Red Crescent rescuers attending to wounded people at the ceremony.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reza Fallah, head of the Kerman province Red Crescent, told state TV: "Our rapid response teams are evacuating the injured... But there are waves of crowds blocking roads."&nbsp;

Iran-based Tasnim news agency reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were packed on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located.&nbsp;

The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benny-gantz-preferred-over-benjamin-netanyahu-after-gaza-war-ends-poll-finds-676125">Benny Gantz preferred over Benjamin Netanyahu after Gaza war ends, poll finds</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Who was&nbsp;Soleimani?&nbsp;</h2>

Soleimani was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He was the commander of the Quds Force, which is an IRGC division primarily responsible for extraterritorial and clandestine military operations, from 1998 until his death.&nbsp;

He was killed in a US drone strike just outside Baghdad airport.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At least 84 people were killed and more than 140 others injured in Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3) in twin blasts that took place in quick succession near the grave of late general Qasem Soleimani, state television reported.

At least 84 people were killed and more than 140 others injured in Iran on Wednesday (Jan 3) in twin blasts that took place in quick succession near the grave of late general Qasem Soleimani, state television reported. IRNA said 141 people were wounded in the blasts with some "in critical condition". The explosions took place on the anniversary of Soleimani's killing in a US drone strike in Iraq in 2020. The state media quoted a local official in the Kerman province as saying that the "blasts were caused by terrorist attacks". According to the semi-official Nournews, "Several gas canisters exploded on the road leading to the cemetery". Also read: Israeli civilian impersonator joins Gaza war, poses with PM Netanyahu, faces weapons theft charges Hundreds of people were present at the cemetery, and state TV showed Red Crescent rescuers attending to wounded people at the ceremony. Reza Fallah, head of the Kerman province Red Crescent, told state TV: "Our rapid response teams are evacuating the injured... But there are waves of crowds blocking roads." Iran-based Tasnim news agency reported that the first blast happened at 15:04 pm (local time) when people were packed on a road leading to a cemetery where the tomb of Soleimani is located. The second blast occurred around 13 minutes later. Also read: Benny Gantz preferred over Benjamin Netanyahu after Gaza war ends, poll finds Who was Soleimani? Soleimani was an Iranian military officer who served in the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. He was the commander of the Quds Force, which is an IRGC division primarily responsible for extraterritorial and clandestine military operations, from 1998 until his death. He was killed in a US drone strike just outside Baghdad airport. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran says 84  killed in twin blasts near late general Qasem Soleimani’s grave

An Israeli drone strike killed top Hamas leader Saleh Al-Arouri Tuesday, on the eve of the fourth anniversary of the US killing of IRGC commander Qassem Soleimani. Some hardline commentators in Iran are suggesting that the timing has been deliberate and all the more insulting.

Hamas leader Arouri killed as mourners pay home to Qassem Soleimani in Iran

An Israeli drone strike killed top Hamas leader Saleh Al-Arouri Tuesday, on the eve of the fourth anniversary of the US killing of IRGC commander Qasem Soleimani. Some hardline commentators in Iran are suggesting that the timing has been deliberate and all the more insulting.

Israeli drone strike on eve of Qasem Soleimani's fourth death anniversary

Tensions are running high in West Asia. Over 100 people have been killed in twin blasts in Iran. The victims were part of a procession that was walking towards Qasem Soleimani's tomb on his 4th death anniversary. In Beirut, a drone strike has killed a Hamas leader. The Hezbollah has vowed to avenge the death. Is Israel staring at a multi-front war? Has Netanyahu got his bigger war?

Gravitas | Iran Blasts, Beirut Drone Strike: Has Netanyahu got his bigger war?

A Spanish soccer fan who spent at least 15 months in Iranian prison returned home in Madrid on Tuesday. Santiago Sanchez was detained by Iranian authorities espionage charges after visiting and photograohing the burial site of Mahsa Amini.

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