Iranian President and Foreign Minister Martyred in Tragic Helicopter Crash

Tehran, Iran – In a devastating incident, Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian were martyred in a helicopter crash that occurred on Sunday in East Azarbaijan Province. The helicopter, carrying several high-ranking officials, went down in a dense forest area, resulting in the loss of all lives on board.

The crash site, located in the Dizmar forest between the cities of Varzaqan and Jolfa, claimed the lives of President Raeisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, East Azarbaijan Province Governor Malek Rahmati, and Ayatollah Mohammad Ali Ale-Hashem, the representative of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution to East Azarbaijan province. Other passengers, including a member of the president’s bodyguard team Mahdi Mousavi, the helicopter’s pilot, co-pilot, and crew, were also martyred.

The tragic incident has prompted an outpouring of condolences from world leaders and nations. Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev expressed his sorrow, highlighting Raeisi’s dedication and loyalty to Iran. “We were impressed upon the heartbreaking news of the death of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raeisi, Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other companions in the helicopter accident,” Aliyev stated in a message addressed to the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. He commended Raeisi as an outstanding statesman whose memory will remain alive.

Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov also extended his condolences, recognizing the deceased as prominent political figures who defended their country with unwavering nationalism. Lavrov noted their significant roles in strengthening cooperation and mutual trust between Russia and Iran.

The United Arab Emirates’ President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, expressed solidarity with Iran, offering heartfelt condolences to the Iranian government and people. Al Nahyan emphasized his country’s support during this difficult time, while Al Thani expressed deep concern and readiness to assist in any way possible.

Armenian Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan conveyed his deepest sympathies, particularly mourning the loss of his colleague and friend, Amir-Abdollahian. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif announced a day of mourning, with the Pakistani flag flying at half-mast to honor Raeisi and his companions. Sharif recalled Raeisi and Amir-Abdollahian’s recent visit to Pakistan, describing them as good friends of the nation.

Iran’s cabinet issued a statement following a meeting, offering condolences and paying tribute to President Raeisi for his tireless efforts and dedication to the Iranian nation. The ministers assured the Iranian people that they will continue to follow Raeisi’s path in serving the country, ensuring no disruption to administrative affairs.

The helicopter was returning from a ceremony to inaugurate a dam on the Aras River with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev when the crash occurred. The loss of President Raeisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian marks a significant blow to the Iranian leadership, leaving the nation in mourning. The Iranian government has called for an investigation into the crash to determine its cause and prevent such tragedies in the future.

As Iran grapples with this profound loss, the international community stands in solidarity, recognizing the contributions and legacy of the martyred leaders. The memory of President Raeisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian will endure, as their dedication and service to Iran remain a source of inspiration.