Iran says it ‘unintentionally’ shot down Ukrainian jetliner
Posted Jan 10, 2020 9:01 pm.
Last Updated Jan 10, 2020 11:49 pm.
TEHRAN, Iran – Iranian state TV, citing a military statement, says the country `unintentionally’ shot down a Ukrainian jetliner, killing all 176 aboard. The statement coming out late Friday evening.
It blames “human error” for the shootdown.
The Islamic Republic of Iran deeply regrets this disastrous mistake.
My thoughts and prayers go to all the mourning families. I offer my sincerest condolences. https://t.co/4dkePxupzm
— Hassan Rouhani (@HassanRouhani) January 11, 2020
Iran’s Foreign Minister releasing a statement saying, “A sad day. Preliminary conclusions of internal investigation by Armed Forces: Human error at time of crisis caused by US adventurism led to disaster.”
“Our profound regrets, apologies and condolences to our people, to the families of all victims, and to other affected nations.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responding to the latest developments in Iran.
In a statement Trudeau says, “Iran acknowledged that Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 was shot down by its own armed forces”
“Our focus remains closure, accountability, transparency and justice for the families and loved ones of the victims.”
The statement goes on to say “This is a national tragedy, and all Canadians are mourning together.”
He adds, “We will continue working with our partners around the world to ensure a complete and thorough investigation.”
The jetliner, a Boeing 737 operated by Ukrainian International Airlines, went down on the outskirts of Tehran during takeoff just hours after Iran launched a barrage of missiles at U.S. forces.
Iran had denied for several days that a missile downed the aircraft. But then the U.S. and Canada, citing intelligence, said they believe Iran shot down the aircraft.
