Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian died in the helicopter crash.
On Sunday, a helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi crashed while trying to land in the Jolfa region of East Azerbaijan province. The crash occurred amid harsh weather conditions, including heavy fog and rain, which complicated rescue efforts. The helicopter was part of a three-helicopter convoy, and although the other two helicopters landed safely, Raisi’s helicopter did not. He was returning from the Azerbaijani border, where he had inaugurated a dam project with Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev.
Reports surfaced on social media and were picked up by local media about a helicopter crash in the president’s convoy. Initially, a news website reported that President Raisi opted to travel by car to Tabriz due to foggy weather, ensuring his safety. However, state television later confirmed that the missing helicopter was carrying Raisi and other officials. State television described the helicopter’s landing as a “hard landing”. A “hard landing” occurs when an aircraft lands with greater force and speed than normal, often due to adverse weather conditions, pilot errors, or mechanical issues.
Tragically, Iranian state media confirmed that President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian died in the crash, along with all other passengers on board. The helicopter, a U.S.-made Bell 212, hit a mountain peak and was completely burned upon impact. This devastating news has deeply saddened the nation. However, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei reassured the public that state affairs would continue without interruption.
In recent months, President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian had been crucial figures in international efforts regarding the conflict in Gaza. They actively supported Palestine, making their deaths a significant loss felt worldwide. Leaders and countries around the globe have expressed their condolences.
Rescue teams faced difficult terrain and severe weather conditions as they worked through the night to reach the crash site. Despite their efforts, no signs of life were found among the wreckage, as confirmed by the head of Iran’s Red Crescent, Pirhossein Kolivand. The Iranian public and officials held prayers and vigils, deeply mourning the loss of their leaders.
The global community, including the United States, China, and the European Union, expressed concern and offered assistance. President Joe Biden received a briefing on the situation, and Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, who had just bid farewell to Raisi, offered help in the rescue efforts.
Since his election in 2021, President Ebrahim Raisi significantly impacted Iran’s political landscape. He not only tightened morality laws but also oversaw crackdowns on protests. Additionally, he played a key role in nuclear negotiations with world powers. Therefore, his untimely death, along with the foreign minister’s, marks a profound loss for Iran at a critical time.
It’s noteworthy to mention that President Ebrahim Raisi was poised to succeed Khamenei. Now, as per the constitution, the Vice President will take over the leadership. Elections will take place within 50 days, and they can now be expected by early July.
Sources: Al Jazeera, Reuters & NDTV.
