The National Iranian American Council released the following statement after dozens were killed and injured in a terror attack in Ahvaz, Iran:

“Tragically, terrorists have again struck inside Iran, killing dozens of civilians at a military parade in Ahvaz. The National Iranian American Council condemns this act of terror and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. Just as the Iranian people have mourned the loss of Americans due to terrorism, including after the 9/11 attacks, the American people stand in solidarity with the Iranian people.

“It is impossible to discount the possibility that this attack was deliberately timed and targeted to prompt an escalatory response from Iran that triggers a broader war with the United States. American officials spent this week issuing veiled threats against Iran. American ally Saudi Arabia has also, dangerously, warned that it would take the fight inside Iran. Moreover, National Security Advisor John Bolton last year called for assistance to Iranian separatist groups, including Khuzestan Arabs who claimed credit for today’s attack. All of these factors necessitate a clear and unconditional American condemnation of the attack.

“We need statesmanship now more than ever. If the President responds as he did to terror attacks in Iran in 2017, when he blamed Iran for provoking the attacks, he risks worsening the crisis. President Trump, Secretary Pompeo, unofficial spokespersons of this administration and members of the U.S. Congress must condemn the attack in solidarity with the Iranian people without delay and offer any assistance that might shed light on the perpetrators and what motivated them.

“We call on all sides to act with restraint, and not fall into a trap of escalation without off ramps. Iran should show restraint and help to de-escalate the crisis, and avoid falling into the trap of further inflaming it.”

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