What it is about:

Iran’s intelligence ministry has identified a primary suspect in the recent twin suicide bombings that struck a memorial event, raising the death toll to 94. The bombings were carried out last week and were claimed by the Islamic State group. The attacks occurred during a commemoration for Iranian General Qassem Soleimani who was killed in a 2020 US drone strike.

Why it matters:

This incident marks the deadliest attack within Iranian territory in many years and underscores the persistent regional instability. As emergency personnel and bystanders became victims of a second bombing following the initial blast, the coordinated attacks point to a sophisticated level of planning and execution, contributing to heightened tensions in the Middle East.

Who is involved:

The intelligence ministry named Abdollah Tajiki, a Tajik national allegedly responsible for planning and creating the bombs used in the attacks. He was able to enter and exit Iran around the time of the events. The first bomber, identified by the surname Bozrov, held Tajik and Israeli nationality and had trained with ISIS in Afghanistan before the bombings. Efforts are ongoing to identify the second bomber as Iranian authorities have detained 35 people linked to the bombings across different provinces.

The victims:

Among the fatalities are 14 Afghan nationals who had been attending Soleimani’s memorial. Casualties increased to 94 from an initial count of 91. The commemoration’s turnout illustrates General Soleimani’s significant influence and the broad aftermath of his assassination.

Broader context:

Since losing its dominated territories in Iraq and Syria, the Islamic State group has remained scattered but still capable of launching severe attacks. This latest strike in Iran points to a possible resurgence in IS activity, signaling to the international community that the threat from extremist groups remains considerable.

This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.