Iran was plunged into mourning after a tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei announced five days of public mourning and appointed vice president Mohammad Mokhber as interim leader. The crash occurred in a mountainous region of East Azerbaijan province, with rescue teams locating the wreckage on Monday morning. Iran’s political leadership, military, and police were involved in a massive search effort, as neighboring countries and international organizations offered support.
Raisi, an ultraconservative figure, had been serving as president since 2021 and was known for his strong stance on key foreign policy issues including support for Palestine. His tenure was marked by regional tensions, including a conflict with Israel in April this year. Despite the tragic loss, expressions of solidarity poured in from various countries and organizations, highlighting Raisi’s impact on the international stage. The details of the crash, including its cause and exact circumstances, are still under investigation.