TEHRAN: A senior Iranian military official has criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump for the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani, suggesting that the action served to benefit global terrorism. Brigadier General Iraj Masjedi, Deputy Coordinator of the IRGC's Quds Force, described the assassination as "the greatest service to terrorist movements worldwide."

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, General Masjedi made these remarks during a commemoration ceremony marking the fifth anniversary of General Soleimani's death. Reflecting on his long-standing professional relationship with Soleimani, Masjedi emphasized their shared mission against terrorism, noting that he served alongside him for 22 years in the Quds Force. He credited Soleimani with significant achievements in fighting terrorist groups like Daesh and al-Qaeda, contributing to both regional and global security.

Masjedi highlighted Soleimani's efforts in dismantling these terrorist organizations and his role in providing security for Iran and the broader region. He stated that while many innocent lives were lost to terrorists, it was Soleimani who played a pivotal role in their eradication.

The Iranian commander expressed regret that Soleimani, whom he described as a symbol of anti-terror efforts, became the target of a strategic killing, orchestrated by Trump. The assassination, carried out by a U.S. drone strike near Baghdad airport on January 3, 2020, significantly heightened tensions between Iran and the United States.