Islamic State Claims Responsibility for Deadly Iran Bombings; Iran Blames Israel and U.S.

The Islamic State group issued a statement through its media outlet, Amaq, claiming responsibility for the bombings that targeted a site near the shrine of General Qassem Soleimani in the city of Kerman. The attack, which occurred on January 4, 2024, was described as a 'martyrdom operation' by the group. Iran's state media reported that the blasts were carried out by 'foreign agents' and blamed Israel and the United States for the attack, citing intelligence sources. Tehran called for a 'strong response' and warned of further retaliation.