On Sunday, tragedy struck Iran as a helicopter carrying President Ebrahim Raisi and his delegation crashed in the Dizmar forest in East Azarbaijan Province. The wreckage was discovered early Monday by search and rescue teams who had scoured the mountainous terrain overnight despite heavy fog.
The Iranian government convened an emergency meeting led by Vice President Mohammad Mokhber following the devastating news. Among the martyred are several high-ranking officials, including President Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Dr. Malik Rahmati, Sardar Seyed Mehdi Mousavi, an unidentified member of the Ansar al-Mahdi Corps, and the helicopter crew whose identities remain unknown.
Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, announced on X on Monday, “Utmost dejected & grievously dolorous i have to announce that President Seyed Ebrahim Raisi & FM Hussain Amirabdollahian, embraced Shahadat in consequence to a helicopter crash during a mission to Inaugurate a developmental project with a neighboring country.”
President Raisi, a staunch nationalist, was renowned for his commitment to the development and sovereignty of Iran and his efforts to elevate the country’s global stature.
In accordance with Article 131 of the Islamic Republic’s constitution, Vice President Mohammad Mokhber will assume the presidency with the confirmation of the Supreme Leader, who has ultimate authority over all state matters. A council comprising the first vice president, the speaker of parliament, and the head of the judiciary must organize a new presidential election within 50 days. Initially scheduled for 2025, this election is now expected to occur by early July.
President Raisi’s death, along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other key officials, is a significant blow to Iran. As the nation mourns, it looks ahead to new leadership and the continuation of Raisi’s vision for Iran’s future. The Iranian government remains committed to stability and progress, vowing to uphold the late president’s dedication to national service and international standing.
The Iranian government has assured its citizens that operations will continue seamlessly. “We assure the loyal nation that the path of service will continue with the tireless spirit of Ayatollah Raisi,” a cabinet statement declared.
