What’s happening:
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, during a funeral procession for victims of twin suicide bombings in Kerman, Iran, attributed the October 7 Hamas attacks in southern Israel to the downfall of Israel. This event follows the commemoration of slain IRGC general Qassem Soleimani’s fourth death anniversary.
Why it matters:
Raisi’s comments reflect the ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel, giving insight into Iran’s political standpoint and potential future actions. This incident also brings to light the volatile landscape of Middle Eastern geopolitics, heavily influenced by militia activities and rivalries.
By the numbers:
The twin blasts in the southern city of Kerman claimed 89 lives. Following a devastating attack by Hamas on October 7, that resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and the capture of around 240 hostages in Israel.
The big picture:
Raisi praised the Hamas operation and forewarned of the “end of the Zionist regime,” a term often used by Iranian officials to refer to Israel. He further boosted the morale of Iranian forces by emphasizing Iran’s strength and capability to pick the time and place for action, vaguely referring to adversaries which he implied were responsible for the Kerman attack.
Between the lines:
Despite Islamic State’s claim of responsibility for the explosions during the Soleimani commemorations, Iranian officials insinuate the involvement of Israeli and U.S. interests, suggesting ISIS operates under their influence. The U.S. has denied any connection to the bombings.
What’s next:
Iranian authorities have pledged to retaliate against these actions and have called for mass public rallies. The domestic and international responses to this complex situation could have significant repercussions for regional stability and international relations.
Reaction:
Mass gatherings followed the funeral, with calls for revenge and chants against America and Israel, while Iranian officials report arrests linked to the attack. The direct impact of the tragedy and the heightened rhetoric from Iran demonstrate an increasingly tense atmosphere that could escalate further.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.