“No sign of life” waa found at the crash site of a helicopter transporting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and several other officialst in the country’s northwest, according to Iranian state television. The helicopter had a severe accident on Sunday as it navigated through dense fog in the mountainous terrain of East Azerbaijan province.
“President Raisi’s helicopter was completely burned in the crash … unfortunately, all passengers are feared dead,” an Iranian official told Reuters news agency under the condition of anonymity.
“The helicopter was on its way back from a border visit near Azerbaijan when it encountered bad weather, leading to the crash,” the Iranian official added. Rescue efforts were immediately hampered by the adverse conditions, with dense fog and rain complicating the accessibility and discovery of the crash site.
Iranian state media, which halted regular programming to cover the incident extensively, broadcast prayers for the safety of the president and the crew involved. The national broadcaster also showcased live footage of rescue teams struggling through the mountainous area amid worsening weather conditions.
“This is a critical moment for Iran, both domestically and internationally, as the president’s condition remains uncertain,” stated a local reporter on Iranian state TV. “The ongoing rescue operations are a race against time under challenging weather conditions.”
The crash occurs at a turbulent time for Iran, with the government facing intense scrutiny over its nuclear ambitions and its role in regional conflicts, particularly its support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. The recent events have only heightened the geopolitical stakes.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, sought to reassure the public, emphasizing that the situation was under control and that state affairs would not be disrupted. “We hope that God the Almighty returns the dear president and his colleagues in full health to the arms of the nation,” Khamenei said during a public address.
