9 May 2024: In a tragic incident, a helicopter transporting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday. The accident occurred as the helicopter navigated through mountainous terrain enveloped in heavy fog during its return from a visit to the border with Azerbaijan.
An Iranian official, speaking on condition of anonymity, expressed grave concerns about the safety of President Raisi and the Foreign Minister, stating that their lives were “at risk following the helicopter crash.” Rescue efforts have been complicated by the adverse weather conditions, as reported by the state news agency IRNA.
State television halted its regular programming to broadcast prayers held nationwide for President Raisi’s well-being. Additionally, live coverage of rescue teams combing the rugged landscape on foot amidst heavy fog was aired in a corner of the screen.
President Raisi, aged 63, assumed office in 2021 after winning the presidential election on his second attempt. During his tenure, he has implemented stricter morality laws, overseen crackdowns on anti-government protests, and actively participated in nuclear negotiations with global powers.
In Iran’s political structure, where power is divided between the clerical establishment and the government, the ultimate authority lies with the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, President Raisi is viewed by many as a potential successor to the 85-year-old Supreme Leader, given his alignment with Khamenei’s key policies.
Interior Minister Ahmed Vahidi confirmed that one of the helicopters in a group of three had encountered a hard landing, and further details are awaited from authorities.
President Raisi had visited the Azerbaijani border to inaugurate the Qiz-Qalaisi Dam, a collaborative project between Iran and Azerbaijan.
As the nation awaits updates on this distressing incident, prayers and hopes for the safe return of President Raisi and all individuals aboard the helicopter continue to pour in from across Iran and the international community.
