Great Loss to Iran: Ebrahim Raisi Died in Helicopter Crash

In the region of East Azerbaijan, the helicopter carrying President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials experienced a fatal crash.

To get to the crash scene, rescuers from the Iranian Red Crescent had to battle through thick fog, blizzards, and steep terrain. Following an overnight search in blizzard conditions, early on Monday, the burned wreckage of the helicopter that crashed on Sunday, carrying Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, six other passengers, and crew, was located.

According to Iran's media, There was "no sign" of life among the passengers of helicopter. "Upon finding the helicopter, there was no sign of the helicopter passengers being alive as of yet" said the Iran's media.

According to the state-run IRNA News Agency, state TV did not immediately provide an explanation for the crash, which claimed the lives of the governor of the province of East Azerbaijan, as well as other officials, bodyguards, and crew members.

After a period of increased tensions in the region, especially because of the Gaza conflict and Iran's recent escalation with Israel, this incident occurred. As recently, In response to an alleged Israeli raid on Iran's embassy compound in Damascus that claimed the lives of 13 individuals, including a top commander and his deputy, he launched an unprecedented drone and missile assault on Israel last month.

Leaders from over the world have sent their condolences to the family of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter accident.

The following are some reactions from throughout the world on the president's passing:

China

Chinese President Xi Jinping called Raisi's "tragic death" "a great loss to the Iranian people and the Chinese people have lost a good friend," according to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Egypt

In a statement, the president of the Arab Republic of Egypt showed support for the Iranian government and people in this horrific event. He also prayed for God Almighty to bless the relatives of the victims and the deceased's soul patience and consolation. The declaration was made by Egypt's president, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

The Palestinian Authority

In response to "this immense loss," the Palestinian organization sent "deepest condolences and solidarity to Khamenei, the government, and the Iranian people." It expressed hope that "the repercussions of this great loss" will not defeat Iran's "deep-rooted institutions" and praised Raisi and Amirabollahian for supporting Palestine in its fight against Israel.

Pakistan 

Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister of Pakistan, announced a national day of mourning. “May the martyred souls rest in heavenly peace. The great Iranians nation will overcome this tragedy with customary courage,” he said.