A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister crashed in mountainous terrain amidst heavy fog on Sunday, Iranian officials informed Reuters. Rescue teams were facing challenges in reaching the crash site as efforts to locate and assist the passengers, including President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amirabdollahian, were underway.
An Iranian representative, speaking anonymously to Reuters, expressed concerns about the safety of the passengers involved in the helicopter crash. The incident occurred during the return journey from a border visit to Azerbaijan in Iran’s northwest.
Iranian state media reported that adverse weather conditions led to the crash, complicating the ongoing rescue mission. Resources from Iran’s army and the Revolutionary Guards were mobilized to aid in search and rescue operations following the tragic accident.
As efforts continued to locate the wreckage and provide assistance, neighboring countries extended offers of support in the rescue operation. The crash has occurred during a period of internal dissent within Iran, amidst various political and socio-economic challenges faced by the country.
President Raisi, a hardliner who took office in 2021, has been actively involved in implementing stringent policies, overseeing internal security measures, and engaging in nuclear negotiations with global powers. The crash has prompted international attention and concern, with offers of assistance coming in from various countries, including the United States, Turkey, and the European Union.
