Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the US State Department, implied that the US assessment also confirms ISIS's claim of responsibility for the Kerman explosions. During a press conference on Thursday, January 4, in response to a question about the latest US evaluation of the deadly bombing on Wednesday, January 3, in Kerman, he stated: "Based on all available information, it is clear to us that this was a terrorist attack. We have seen reports indicating that ISIS has claimed responsibility for it." Miller further added: "At this time, I cannot provide an official assessment from this podium regarding who is responsible for that bombing, but this attack has all the hallmarks of ISIS attacks." Emphasizing the terrorist nature of the attack, he expressed condolences to the victims of what he believes is a clear terrorist attack. Matthew Miller, in a press conference on Wednesday, January 3, also referred to "some irresponsible claims" by Iranian officials, stating: "The United States has been in no way involved in this matter, and any reference to it is false and ridiculous." He also emphasized: "Secondly, we have no reason to believe that Israel is involved in this matter." The Islamic State (ISIS) announced in a statement published on Thursday, January 4, on Telegram channels associated with the group that two ISIS members detonated their "explosive belts" among a crowd gathered on Wednesday for the anniversary of Soleimani's death at the Kerman cemetery. Iranian officials previously identified "terrorists" as the perpetrators of these explosions and promised to take revenge. On the anniversary of Qassem Soleimani's death, while dozens of attendees, including several children, were killed during the explosion at the government ceremony in Kerman, images received by Voice of America show that some citizens opposed to the Islamic Republic burned images of Qassem Soleimani in various cities in Iran.
US Reaction to ISIS Claiming Responsibility for Kerman Explosions: Our Assessment is the Same
The US State Department confirmed that ISIS claimed responsibility for the deadly Kerman explosions, labeling it a terrorist attack. Matthew Miller emphasized that the US has no involvement in the incident and dismissed Iranian claims of foreign involvement. This incident highlights ongoing tensions and the complex security situation in Iran.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
On January 3, 2024, explosions occurred during a ceremony in Kerman, Iran, commemorating Qassem Soleimani's death, which ISIS claimed responsibility for. The US confirmed the attack's terrorist nature and denied any involvement in the incident.
- The explosions killed dozens, including children, during a public gathering.
- The US State Department emphasized that there was no involvement from the US or Israel.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Iran has been combating ISIS and other terrorist groups, which pose a threat to its national security. The anniversary of Soleimani's death often sparks heightened tensions and commemorative events.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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