The fifth anniversary of Soleimani's death intertwined with breaking coverage of an ISIS-inspired attack in New Orleans that left 15 dead. Morning coverage revealed connections between the New Orleans attacker and a Las Vegas Tesla explosion suspect, both having served at the same military base. FBI later confirmed the attacker acted alone.
Iran's commemoration ceremonies in Kerman drew massive crowds despite snow, while officials emphasized Soleimani's diplomatic legacy alongside military achievements. By afternoon, a diplomatic crisis emerged with Italy over detained journalist Cecilia Sala's case.
Economic coverage focused on Pakistan's renewed efforts to exempt the Iran gas pipeline from US sanctions, while Syria's interim foreign minister called for fundamental changes in Tehran's Damascus policy. The currency crisis narrative continued with 100 parliament members warning about declining value.