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Iran has executed two men for their involvement in a terrorist attack on the Shah Cheragh shrine in the southern Fars province. Mohammad Ramez Rashidi and Naeim Hashem Qetali were publicly executed in the capital city of Shiraz. The attack, which took place in October 2022, resulted in the deaths of 13 people and injured 40 others.
The Shah Cheragh shrine is a popular attraction for both local and foreign tourists, housing the grave of a revered Shia scholar. CCTV footage released by the police showed a lone gunman entering the shrine and opening fire on guards and pilgrims before being apprehended by the authorities. The attacker, identified as Hamed Badakhshan, later died from injuries sustained in the attack.
ISIS claimed responsibility for the attack, marking the first major attack in Iran since 2017 when gunmen targeted the Iranian Parliament and the mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini in Tehran. In March, two individuals were sentenced to death for their involvement in aiding the main perpetrator of the Shah Cheragh shrine attack. Three others received prison sentences ranging from 5 to 25 years for their affiliation with ISIS.
The execution of Rashidi and Qetali comes after their death sentences were upheld by Iran’s apex court. The public nature of the execution serves as a warning to potential terrorists and sends a message that Iran takes such attacks seriously. The attack on the shrine shocked the nation and led to calls for retaliation.
While the execution may provide a sense of justice for the victims and their families, it also highlights the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region. Iran remains vigilant in its efforts to combat extremism and protect its citizens and religious sites from further attacks..
