03 Jan 2025 | 06:16 AM UTC
Iran: Rallies marking Major General Qassem Soleimani's death likely nationwide through early January
Rallies marking Major General Qassem Soleimani's death likely throughout Iran through early January. Increased security likely.
Rallies marking the fifth death anniversary of Major General Qassem Soleimani and the 2024 militant attack in Kerman are likely nationwide through early January. The largest rallies will probably occur in Kerman, where Soleimani was buried. Organizers have announced daily commemoration events through Jan. 6. Additional rallies are likely in other major cities; tens of thousands of individuals could attend the events.
Authorities will likely increase security measures in the affected areas. Localized transport and business disruptions are probable near rally locations. Clashes between police and protesters are possible, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.
Avoid all demonstrations due to possible clashes. Exercise caution near gatherings. Immediately leave the area and shelter in a secure, non-government building if violence erupts. Monitor local media for details concerning events, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Ensure sufficient time to travel in the affected areas. Confirm the availability of transportation; allow additional time to reach destinations. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations. Follow all police instructions. Always carry proper identification; be polite and nonconfrontational if stopped at a security checkpoint or questioned by police.
The US government killed Soleimani in a targeted drone strike outside Baghdad International Airport (BGW) Jan. 3, 2020. Soleimani was the commander of the Quds Force, the external operations arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which conducts special and clandestine missions outside Iran. Widely regarded as Iran's most formidable military leader, Soleimani played a key role in orchestrating Iran's activities in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. The US government justified his killing by asserting that he was planning additional attacks on American assets in Iraq and the broader region.
On Jan. 3, 2024, the Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for the twin bombings in Kerman, which killed 94 people. The blasts occurred near Soleimani's burial site in Kerman Martyrs' Cemetery. The explosions occurred as thousands of mourners had gathered to pay their respects on the fourth anniversary of Soleimani's death.
