Helicopter Crash Endangers Iranian President Raisi and Foreign Minister

 

A helicopter transporting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed in rugged mountainous terrain on Sunday, shrouded in dense fog. The mishap took place as they were returning from a visit to Iran's border with Azerbaijan, according to an Iranian official who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity.

The official highlighted the grave risk to both Raisi and Amirabdollahian following the crash. Inclement weather has been a significant obstacle for the rescue teams. Iran’s state news agency IRNA reported that the head of the army has called for the mobilization of all available resources, including the elite Revolutionary Guard, to assist in the search and rescue efforts.

In the wake of the accident, state television suspended regular programming to air nationwide prayers for President Raisi and to cover the rescue operations live. Rescue teams are making their way to the crash site on foot through heavy fog and difficult terrain, with hopes of reaching the location by Sunday evening.

President Raisi, 63, took office in 2021. His administration has been noted for tightening morality laws, cracking down on anti-government protests, and taking a firm stance in nuclear negotiations with global powers. In Iran’s dual political system, the supreme leader has ultimate authority. Nonetheless, Raisi is seen as a strong candidate to succeed the 85-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who supports Raisi’s policies.

Raisi’s election in 2021 resulted in hardliners gaining control of all branches of government after eight years of pragmatist rule under Hassan Rouhani, who negotiated a nuclear deal with the United States. Raisi's administration has faced significant challenges, including economic difficulties and widespread protests against the clerical regime, affecting his popularity.

The crash happened as Raisi was returning from inaugurating the Qiz-Qalaisi Dam, a joint project at the Azerbaijani border. Interior Minister Ahmed Vahidi told state television that one of the three helicopters in the convoy had gone down. Authorities are still awaiting detailed information on the incident.

"We are hopeful, but the information from the crash site is concerning," the official said. The poor weather conditions have complicated the rescue mission. The chief of staff of Iran’s army has ordered the deployment of all military resources to support the rescue efforts.

State television is broadcasting prayers for Raisi nationwide and providing continuous updates on the rescue operations. As the nation anxiously awaits more news, the focus remains on the safety and recovery of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian.