Thousands of Iranians gathered to mourn President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage who died in a helicopter crash in the northwest. Mourners in Tabriz, where the president was heading, walked behind coffins, waving flags and portraits of Raisi.
The helicopter lost communications after an inaugural ceremony with Azerbaijan. A search operation began when contact was lost with two other helicopters. Raisi’s death was announced on Monday, leading to a national mourning period.
National mourning
Ayatollah Khamenei declared five days of national mourning. Mohammad Mokhber is serving as caretaker president until elections on June 28. The funeral processions will conclude with Raisi’s burial in Mashhad. Raisi’s presidency faced challenges, including economic crises and tensions with Israel.
Condolences poured in from allies in the region, highlighting Iran’s role in supporting the Palestinians. The death of Raisi marks a shift in Middle Eastern politics. Despite tensions with Israel, Raisi emphasized Iran’s commitment to the Palestinian cause in his final speech.