Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi, foreign minister die in helicopter crash

Srinagar, May 20: Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian have died in a helicopter crash, as confirmed by several state and semi-official news agencies.

State TV on Monday morning announced there were “no signs of life” at the crash site. Reuters reported the helicopter was “completely burned,” citing an Iranian official.

The Iranian Red Crescent Society located the wreckage of President Raisi’s helicopter, aided by a Turkish Akinci unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Press TV reported that no survivors were found at the crash site.

An official from the Iranian rescue teams stated, “The condition is not good,” according to state news agency IRNA. “Seventy-three rescue teams are present in the search area of the helicopter in Tawal village with advanced and specialized equipment,” he added.

The helicopter crashed on Sunday afternoon while President Raisi was returning to Iran after visiting Azerbaijan. Nine people were on board, including three officials, an imam, and members of the flight and security team, as reported by Tasnim news.

The IRGC-run media outlet Sepah identified the nine individuals as: President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, Governor of Eastern Azerbaijan province Malek Rahmati, Tabriz’s Friday prayer Imam Mohammad Ali Alehashem, a pilot, co-pilot, crew chief, head of security, and another bodyguard.

Following the crash, several countries have offered assistance in the ongoing search operations. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern and stated that India stands in solidarity with Iran during this distressing time. He also mentioned that he is praying for the well-being of President Raisi and the other leaders aboard the helicopter.