Local Iranians react after death of Soleimani

FORT BRAGG, N.C. — The Pentagon is deploying 3,500 more troops from Fort Bragg to the Middle East, U.S. officials told ABC News.

It comes one day after a U.S. airstrike killed an Iranian commander whom U.S. officials have blamed for the deaths of hundreds of American service members in the Middle East.

The decision to deploy more troops comes after Iran threatened retaliation for the U.S. military operation that killed Gen. Qassem Soleimani, the leader of Iran’s Quds Force, as he left the Baghdad airport.

Channel 9 reporter Joe Bruno spoke with more than a half-dozen Iranians in Charlotte, and they all were glad Solemeini is dead -- one raised his hands in the air in celebration.

The loss of the man responsible for thousands of American and Middle Eastern deaths and the displacement of millions of refugees is being celebrated by some members of Charlotte’s Iranian community.

Many of them were nervous to go on camera because they still have family members living in Iran.

“This man, has so many years of blood in his hands, especially killing so many Americans,” said Bahman Maalizadeh, founder of the Norooz Foundation, which is a Charlotte nonprofit that assists Iranian refugees.

RELATED COVERAGE:

• Trump launches Baghdad attack, kills top Iranian Quds commander
• Qassem Soleimani: U.S. forces kill top Iranian intelligence commander; what we know now
• Cycle of revenge: What’s next after killing of Iran general?

Reaction from local politicians has been split along party lines

Rep. Alma Adams tweeted, “President Trump is on a deadly, irresponsible course that will lead to war.”

Rep. Dan Bishop tweeted, “I fully support President Trump’s demonstration of American resolve -- balanced and prudent.”

The soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division could leave Fort Bragg for the Middle East as early as this weekend, according to ABC News.

A source told ABC News they could be stationed in Kuwait, where 750 soldiers from the same brigade were deployed earlier this week.

Americans urged to leave Iraq immediately after Soleimani killed in US airstrike Americans urged to leave Iraq immediately after Soleimani killed in US airstrike

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

• Second suspect charged in shooting death of 13-year-old girl at Concord Mills
• 3,500 more Fort Bragg troops to deploy to Middle East as Iran threatens retaliation
• Husband, wife, 2 dogs survive North Carolina plane crash thanks to parachute
• Body found in search for missing Alabama woman Paighton Houston
• Father, 9-year-old daughter killed in South Carolina deer hunting accident

© 2020 Cox Media Group