Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Confirmed Dead in Helicopter Crash

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials crashed in the mountainous northwest of Iran on Sunday, sparking a large-scale rescue operation in a foggy forest. Officials later confirmed “no sign of life” at the crash site.

First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber has begun receiving calls from officials and foreign governments. An emergency Cabinet meeting was held, during which officials pledged to continue Raisi’s path and manage the country effectively. The last video of Raisi before boarding the helicopter has gone viral. Earlier that day, he had inaugurated a dam project with his Azeri counterpart Ilham Aliyev.

Pakistan will observe a day of mourning, with flags at half-mast, in respect for Raisi and his companions. Hezbollah leader Nasrallah mourned Raisi’s death, quoting the Quran in a social media post. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed condolences, recalling Raisi’s recent visit to Pakistan and highlighting the strong ties between the two nations.

Iran’s ambassador to India and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed their condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered condolences and affirmed India’s support for Iran, acknowledging Raisi’s contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

In accordance with Iranian law, Mohammad Mokhber will be the interim president, pending approval from the Supreme Leader. A new presidential election must be held within 50 days. State media confirmed that all passengers on the helicopter, including Raisi, are dead. The helicopter crashed into a mountain peak, and search teams have located the wreckage, although conditions are poor.