Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi

On 19th May, 2024, Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian were tragically killed in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan-Iranian border.

The crash, confirmed by Iran's state media, resulted in the deaths of all passengers onboard, marking a significant loss for Iran amid ongoing political and economic challenges.
The crash occurred as the helicopter, a US-made Bell 212, was navigating mountainous terrain in heavy fog.
The helicopter was carrying several officials, including the governor of Iran’s East Azerbaijan province and bodyguards.
Search and rescue operations involved the Iranian army and Revolutionary Guards, with assistance from a Turkish drone identifying the wreckage site.
Raisi's death comes at a critical time, with Iran under international scrutiny over its nuclear program and military actions.
Elections for a new president must be held within 50 days, with the vice president set to assume interim leadership upon confirmation from the supreme leader.