Key Points
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday, May 20, 2024, in a remote region of Iran.
Here are some key points about the incident:
- Cause of crash: The helicopter crashed due to bad weather and fog in the mountainous area near the border with Azerbaijan.
- Location: The crash occurred in the Dizmar Protected Area, a wildlife corridor across the border with Azerbaijan.
- Passengers: There were nine people on board, including Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials.
- Rescue efforts: Rescue teams battled for over 10 hours to reach the crash site due to fog and snow, but unfortunately, there were no survivors.
- Reactions: World leaders, including the US President Joe Biden, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, have expressed condolences over Raisi's death.
- Succession: First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber has been named interim president, and new elections are expected within 50 days.
Global Response
The world was taken by surprise upon learning of the tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who perished in a helicopter crash in Iran’s mountainous northwestern region near the Azerbaijan border. The crash also claimed the lives of nine other officials, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. The international community has expressed profound condolences and shared their sorrow over the loss of Raisi, recognizing his contributions to both Iran and global diplomacy.
China
Chinese President Xi Jinping described Raisi's death as a "great loss to the Iranian people," noting that the Chinese people have lost a good friend. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed President Xi’s message, emphasizing the deep bond shared between Iran and China.
European Union
Charles Michel, President of the European Council, expressed sincere condolences on behalf of the European Union, highlighting the significant impact of the tragedy on Iranian officials and their families. Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, echoed these sentiments, extending sympathies to the families of all victims and the Iranian citizens affected.
India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his shock and sadness at Raisi’s death, acknowledging his role in strengthening the India-Iran bilateral relationship. Modi extended heartfelt condolences to Raisi’s family and the people of Iran, affirming India’s solidarity during this sorrowful time.
Iraq
Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani of Iraq expressed solidarity with the Iranian people, offering support to the officials of the Islamic Republic amidst this painful tragedy. The close ties between the two nations were underscored in his statement.
Hamas
The Palestinian group Hamas conveyed deep condolences and solidarity with Iran. They praised Raisi and Amirabdollahian for their steadfast support of Palestine against Israel, expressing confidence in Iran’s institutions to overcome the repercussions of this significant loss.
Malaysia
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia expressed deep sadness, reminiscing about his meeting with Raisi last November. He admired Raisi’s dedication to justice, peace, and the upliftment of the Islamic community, and pledged to continue strengthening Malaysia-Iran relations.
Pakistan
Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared a day of mourning in Pakistan, expressing his hope for heavenly peace for the martyred souls. He acknowledged the courage of the Iranian nation in facing this tragedy.
Qatar
Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar offered his condolences to the people of Iran, invoking a prayer for mercy and patience for the families of the deceased. His message reflected a deep sense of empathy and spiritual solace.
Russia
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and President Vladimir Putin both expressed their condolences. Lavrov highlighted the invaluable role of Raisi and Amirabdollahian in fostering Russian-Iranian cooperation. Putin praised Raisi as an outstanding politician and a true friend of Russia, recognizing his efforts in developing strategic partnerships between the two countries.
Turkey
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed his condolences and detailed Ankara’s efforts to assist Iran upon hearing about the crash. Despite their best efforts, including those of the defense ministry and the disaster management authority, they were unable to bring good news, as conveyed during a press conference with Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in Islamabad.
Yemen’s Houthis
Mohammed Ali al-Houthi, head of the Houthi's Supreme Revolutionary Committee, extended his deepest condolences to the Iranian people and the families of the deceased officials. He expressed confidence that Iran would continue to adhere to the legacy of their loyal leaders.
The death of President Ebrahim Raisi has indeed been a significant loss, not only to Iran but also to the global community that valued his leadership and diplomatic contributions. The heartfelt reactions from leaders around the world underscore the profound impact Raisi had on international relations and the deep respect he garnered from his global counterparts.
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