By THE CONVERSATION
A tragic helicopter crash in Iran involving President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials on May 19 led to a rescue operation that ultimately resulted in no survivors. As a respected figure in Iranian politics, Raisi’s death will undoubtedly impact the country’s stability and future. But who was Raisi, and what does his passing mean for Iran and beyond?
Who was Ebrahim Raisi?
Raisi rose through Iran’s judicial system, gaining notoriety for his role in imposing capital punishment on thousands of detainees in the late 1980s. Despite denying his involvement in the executions, Raisi held prominent positions within the Iranian government, positioning himself as a tough leader against corruption and dissent.
How big of a blow is losing Raisi for the regime?
While Raisi’s loyalty to the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, positioned him as a potential successor, his death is unlikely to have a significant impact on the Iranian system. The challenge now lies in seamlessly transitioning power and maintaining control over dissenting voices in the country.
What could Raisi’s death mean for stability in the Middle East and beyond?
The aftermath of Raisi’s death will undoubtedly shape the political landscape in the Middle East, with a focus on Iran’s foreign relations and internal stability. The appointment of Mohammad Mokhber as acting president signifies a period of transition and potential challenges for the regime.
By Scott Lucas – Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin