Iran: Armed attack on Shah Cheragh Shrine in Shiraz leaves at least two people dead and four others injured Aug. 13

Event

Authorities will likely maintain a very tight security posture in the southern city of Shiraz over the coming days in the wake of an Aug. 13 attack targeting the city's Shah Cheragh Shrine. Preliminary information indicates that two armed assailants entered the Shi'a Muslim house of worship and opened fire on the occupants. There are conflicting reports on the number of casualties with various sources claiming at least two persons were killed and between 4-7 injured in the attack.

No group has as yet claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident comes about one month after Iranian authorities executed two individuals convicted of having participated in an October 2022 assault on the same shrine by the Islamic State group; that attack left about 15 people dead.

Advice

Avoid the scene of the attack until authorities have completed their investigation and given the all-clear. Strictly heed the instructions of local security personnel and carry proper identification documents at all times. Remain courteous and cooperative if approached and questioned by law enforcement officers. Plan accordingly for security-related traffic disruptions in the vicinity of the Shah Cheragh Shrine.