The crash of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter on Sunday night in a mountainous area has raised fears about his well-being, alongside that of his Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, as confirmed by an Iranian official leading a sizable search and rescue operation.
Attributing the crash to adverse weather conditions, Iran’s Interior Minister, Ahmad Vahidi, noted the incident occurring merely a month following Iran’s missile and drone strike on Israel.
State media have labeled the event as accidental.
In response to the crisis, the chief of staff of the Iranian military has launched a comprehensive rescue mission, mobilizing the entire army and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for assistance.
Over 65 search and rescue teams, equipped with medical units and drones, have been deployed to the vicinity of Jolfa, near the Azerbaijani border, located approximately 375 miles northwest of Tehran.
Despite the concerted efforts, rescue operations have faced significant challenges due to thick fog and rugged terrain, leading to a suspension of helicopter searches upon nightfall.
The situation remains tense as authorities continue their efforts to locate and aid the individuals involved in the crash, with concerns for the safety and well-being of President Raisi and his accompanying officials at the forefront.
