Iran has strongly denounced a terrorist attack at a concert hall in a Moscow suburb that claimed the lives of dozens of Russians and left many others injured.
According to reports from Russian authorities and news agencies, gunmen opened fire at a rock concert on Friday, triggering a major fire that engulfed the theater.
The attack resulted in at least 40 deaths and numerous injuries, as per information provided by RT, with assailants setting the building ablaze. Witnesses reported hearing explosions within the mall.
Emergency services evacuated approximately 100 individuals from the underground floor, with attackers dressed in camouflage entering the premises, firing shots, and allegedly throwing grenades or incendiary devices, as described by a journalist from the RIA Novosti news agency who was present at the scene.
Following the incident, Iran's government swiftly issued a statement condemning the attack, expressing solidarity with Russia during this challenging time. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani conveyed condolences to the government and people of Russia, particularly the families of the victims.
Simultaneously, emergency services confirmed ongoing evacuations at the Crocus City Hall, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
Russia's foreign ministry also condemned the assault, labeling it a "terrorist attack" on a concert featuring the Russian rock band Piknik. Although casualties were unspecified, Moscow mayor Sergei Sobyanin confirmed fatalities, labeling the event a "terrible tragedy."
Reports from RIA Novosti detailed wounded victims amid automatic gunfire, corroborating the chaotic scene described by eyewitnesses.
Law enforcement initiated an investigation into the incident, with local authorities redirecting all available resources to address the aftermath. Evacuations continued from the venue's basement, with images of flames and smoke circulating on Telegram news channels.
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for Russia's foreign ministry, characterized the attack as terrorism, urging global condemnation of the heinous act.
The assault on the Moscow concert hall underscores the urgency for collective action against terrorism, rallying international support for Russia in its response to the tragic event.
