The Iran Foreign Ministry has officially condemned the twin bomb blasts which erupted during Boston's annual holiday and marathon event on Monday, killing three and injuring over 170 people.
"Iran strongly condemns the killing of American citizens in Boston," said ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast. According to Iranian news agency Press TV, Mehmanparast described the incident as a "source of sorrow."
“We believe all governments must try to maintain calm and security for everyone. Acts of extremism and terrorism have to be uprooted across the world and no effort should be made to justify violence,” he stated.
The official—whose country is often characterized as an adversary of the United States—pledged his sympathy and then directed his criticisms towards governments who support extremist groups.
"No one should under any circumstances support terrorism and extremism, whether it be in the Middle East or the United States," he said. “Allowing terrorist groups to operate, and delisting them from the blacklist of terrorist organizations under the pretext of supporting freedom will eventually lead to instability and disorder, and will affect all people.”
The statement followed a massive, 7.8 magnitude earthquake in Iran on Tuesday which has reportedly killed hundreds of civilians. Many reacted online to the two events with joint sympathy with mirrored hashtags #prayforboston and #prayforiran.
As we pray for innocent victims in Boston, let's pray for the 40+ souls reported dead in Iran after quake. on.cnn.com/YOHkVn #peace
— Billy Mann (@BillyMann) April 16, 2013
The events in Boston & Iran have been an eye-opener.Dont take life for granted. Tomorrow is never guaranteed.#PrayforBoston #PrayforIran
— Michael Clarke (@Mr_Mike_Clarke) April 16, 2013
Here's a link to the International Red Cross/Red Crescent for those looking to help those in Boston & Iran. ifrc.org
— Muslim Voices (@muslimvoices) April 16, 2013
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