TEHRAN – In a poignant display of national solidarity, Iranians came together amidst a somber atmosphere to mourn the lives lost in a recent terrorist act in the southeastern city of Kerman.

The funeral and burial ceremonies, held on Friday, January 5, became a solemn platform to bid farewell to the victims and reflect the resilience of the Iranian people in the face of adversity.

Tragedy unfolded on Wednesday in Kerman when two explosions occurred near the tomb of top Iranian anti-terror commander, Lieutenant General Qassem Soleimani, during a ceremony marking four years since his martyrdom. The explosions resulted in 84 casualties and over 200 injuries, including three paramedics who bravely rushed to the scene after the first explosion, according to Iran’s Red Crescent. Among the victims were 44 women and children, along with at least a dozen Afghan nationals.

The Islamic Republic of Iran declared Thursday a National Day of Mourning, underscoring the gravity of the situation. 

In a statement, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei vowed a fitting punishment and a harsh response for the perpetrators of the terrorist attack.

Daesh claimed responsibility for the heinous act, stating that two of its members had detonated explosive belts in the crowded cemetery.

Iran’s armed forces will be in charge of firm response: Raisi

During the funeral procession held in Kerman, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi addressed a massive march held in remembrance of General Soleimani. Raisi condemned the senseless violence, highlighting Iran's enduring strength and emphasizing the unwavering power of the Islamic Republic's armed forces. He underscored the nation's status as a powerful and heroic entity, fueled by the legacy of General Soleimani.

"Our mighty armed forces have demonstrated the unwavering power of the Islamic Republic, and they will determine the time and place for our response," he further stressed.

Raisi urged officials and the public to unite against external threats, praising the diligent work of the martyred General Soleimani in expanding the Resistance movement in the region. He further shed light on the Palestinian Resistance's successful confrontation of the Israeli occupation, confirming that no one can disregard the role of martyr Soleimani mirrored in today's victories.

Iran will avenge its martyrs: IRGC chief

In a separate address, the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) in Iran, Major General Hossein Salami, emphasized Iran's commitment to avenging its martyrs. 

He highlighted defeats suffered by the enemy in various regions and the significant role played by General Soleimani in eliminating terrorist movements. Salami expressed confidence in achieving further victories, emphasizing Iran's continuous activity on all military fronts.

The funeral procession concluded at the burial site, marking the victims' final resting place. The ceremonies concluded with a resounding call for justice and a collective commitment to overcoming adversities. The tragic bombing in Kerman has left an indelible mark on the community, prompting a renewed sense of solidarity and resilience among the Iranian people.

Sharing in Kerman’s grief, similar funeral ceremonies have taken place in other cities across Iran, marking a poignant moment of national unity and resilience as the nation mourned its losses and renewed its commitment to peace and justice. In capital Tehran, people gathered after the Friday prayer to mourn the lives lost. The ceremony became an opportunity to mourn and honor martyr Faezeh Rahimi, an education major student who lost her life in the Kerman bombings, as her remains were transported to Tehran to be laid to rest in this city. 

Also in other Iranian cities, people took to the streets to demand a firm response to the tragic attack.