In a tragic helicopter crash, Iran lost both its President Ebrahim Raisi and Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani, who was Iran’s top nuclear negotiator. Following these unfortunate events, the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appointed Mohammad Mokhber, the vice president, to lead the executive branch as an interim measure. Khamenei also stressed the importance of preparing for presidential elections within 50 days in accordance with the constitution.
Ali Bagheri Kani played a significant role in the US-Iran mediation for the prisoner release deal in September 2023. On the other hand, Mohammad Mokhber, with his new responsibilities, will have to collaborate with other branches of the government to ensure the peaceful transition of power in the upcoming elections.
The sudden loss of key political figures has created a vacuum in Iran’s leadership, and the country now looks towards a period of transition and rebuilding. The people of Iran mourn the loss of their leaders and hope for stability in the face of adversity.