Tehran, May 20, 2024 — Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash in the mountainous region near Jolfa, in northwestern Iran. The tragic incident, which occurred on May 19, also claimed the lives of several other top officials, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
The helicopter was part of a three-helicopter convoy traveling from the border with Azerbaijan to the city of Tabriz when it went down in bad weather. The other two helicopters landed safely. Rescue operations, assisted by foreign governments including Turkey, were launched immediately after the crash, but Iranian authorities confirmed early on May 20 that there were no survivors among the passengers.
Raisi, 63, had served as Iran’s president since 2021. Before his presidency, he held significant roles within Iran’s judicial system, including serving as the head of the judiciary. Known for his hardline stance and deep ties with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Raisi was a key figure in Iran’s political landscape. His death marks a significant turning point for the country, which is now grappling with the loss of one of its most influential leaders.
Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the foreign minister who was also aboard the helicopter, was a prominent diplomat known for his conservative views and support of Iran’s regional policies. His appointment in 2021 was a part of Raisi’s administration’s strategy to strengthen ties within the Middle East and disengage from Western influence.
In the wake of this tragedy, Mohammad Mokhber, Iran’s first vice president, has been appointed as the acting president. Mokhber, a close ally of Raisi, will likely steer the country in the interim period as the nation mourns its leader and the political ramifications unfold.
This incident not only leaves a leadership vacuum but also raises concerns about the stability of Iran’s government and its future direction, both domestically and in its foreign policy. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as Iran navigates this unexpected and significant loss.
