New Delhi, May 20: India has announced a one-day state mourning on Tuesday, May 21, in honor of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, who tragically died in a helicopter crash. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued a directive stating that the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all buildings where it is regularly hoisted, and there will be no official entertainment during the period of mourning.
President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian were on board a helicopter that crashed in mountainous terrain near the Azerbaijan border on Sunday. The wreckage was discovered early Monday following an overnight search amidst blizzard conditions.
Ebrahim Raisi was widely regarded as a potential successor to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His unexpected death has prompted condolences from leaders worldwide. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his shock and sorrow, highlighting Raisi’s contributions to strengthening India-Iran relations. “His contribution to strengthening the India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered,” Modi wrote on social media.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed his grief, recalling his recent meetings with Raisi and Amirabdollahian. “Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at this time of tragedy,” Jaishankar posted.
The accident marks a significant loss for Iran and the international community, reflecting Raisi’s prominent role in regional and global diplomacy.
