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Rabat – The global community is in mourning following the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the life of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and several other officials.
The helicopter crashed on Sunday at approximately 3:45 p.m. local time. The crash site was located in the Dizmar forest, located between the cities of Varzaqan and Jolfa in East Azerbaijan province.
The helicopter went down during a period of severe weather, including heavy fog, mist, and rain, which aviation experts cited as contributing factors to the crash.
Rescue efforts were launched immediately after the helicopter was reported missing. However, the search operation faced significant challenges due to the harsh weather conditions and difficult terrain.
State media announced finding the Iranian delegation and crew’s bodies early Monday.
In accordance with the Iranian Constitution, Vice President Mohammad Mokhber will assume presidential powers until new elections are held within 50 days.
Global reaction
The crash has elicited widespread reactions from leaders and organizations around the world.
In the region, Afghanistan’s Acting Prime Minister Mullah Mohammad Hassan Akhund expressed deep condolences and solidarity with the Iranian people during “these difficult times.”
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas offered sympathy and emphasized the close ties between Palestine and Iran, while Lebanon’s Hezbollah praised the dedication of the deceased leaders to their nation’s causes.
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, posted on social media, remembering Raisi, with “respect and gratitude” for his efforts toward regional peace. Nechirvan Barzani, President of the Iraqi Kurdistan Region, called Raisi’s death an “immense tragedy and profound loss.”
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin described Raisi as a significant politician and a “true friend of Russia,” noting his efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.
European Council President Charles Michel extended the European Union’s “sincere condolences,” while Italy’s Prime Minister Georgia Meloni acknowledged the accident and dismissed conspiracy theories.
Asian leaders also joined in expressing grief. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim remembered Raisi’s commitment to justice and peace, while Japan’s government spokesperson Yoshimasa Hayashi conveyed heartfelt condolences on behalf of Japan.
From the Middle East, Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and the UAE Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum offered prayers and support. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and Jordan’s King Abdullah also expressed solidarity with Iran.
In addition, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi noted Raisi’s role in strengthening India-Iran relations and expressed deep sorrow. Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro praised Raisi as an exemplary leader and defender of sovereignty.
