Shiraz, Iran – August 14, 2023
One person lost their life and eight others sustained injuries in a “terrorist” attack that unfolded at a revered Shia Muslim shrine located in the city of Shiraz, according to reports from state media. The attacker, armed with a battle rifle, attempted to breach the Shah Cheragh mausoleum, opening fire on visitors before being subdued by prompt action.
In October of a previous year, the same shrine was the scene of an attack in which 13 individuals lost their lives. That earlier assault was claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group. However, in this recent incident, no group has immediately claimed responsibility.
Initial reports suggested the involvement of two attackers, resulting in the death of four individuals. These details were later corrected to indicate that the incident was carried out by a lone attacker, resulting in one fatality.
Yadollah Bouali, the regional Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) commander, provided insight into the attacker’s approach, stating, “A terrorist entered the gate of the shrine and opened fire with a battle rifle.” Witnesses noted that the assailant began firing indiscriminately upon confrontation.
Efforts to thwart the attacker were met with resistance as he tried to gain entry from the Bab al-Mahdi door, as reported by the semi-official Fars news agency. The surrounding area was swiftly cordoned off by security forces, and the injured were transported for medical treatment.
Images from Tasnim, another semi-official news agency, showcased bullet holes in windows at the entrance of the mausoleum, a site of significant religious pilgrimage. This location houses the tombs of two sons of the seventh Shia Imam Musa al-Kadhim, who are also siblings to the eighth Imam Ali al-Rida.
This attack follows Iran’s recent execution of two individuals linked to the previous October incident, highlighting the nation’s commitment to combating such acts. Hamed Badakhshan, identified as the main perpetrator, was killed during the attack.
IS, a Sunni jihadist group, has previously claimed responsibility for attacks within Iran, including the 2017 twin bombings targeting the parliament and the tomb of the Islamic Republic’s founder, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The incident underscores the continued security challenges in the region.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation.
Credit :BBC
