May 19th 2024.
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi was on a helicopter ride through East Azerbaijan province when the unexpected occurred. According to reports from Iranian state media, the helicopter experienced a "hard landing" without providing further details. As the rescue teams rushed through the misty, rural forest where the incident took place, many began to pray for the safety of the president and the others on board.
This incident comes at a sensitive time for Iran, as it continues to face mass protests over its ailing economy and women's rights. The country has also been involved in recent conflicts, including an attack on Israel just last month and the arming of Russia in their war against Ukraine. As tensions rise in the Middle East, this unexpected event adds to the uncertainty of Iran's future.
The helicopter was believed to have crashed near the city of Jolfa on the border with Azerbaijan, but later reports placed it near the village of Uzi, adding to the confusion. Among the passengers with President Raisi were Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, the governor of East Azerbaijan province, and other officials and bodyguards.
While some officials used the word "crash" to describe the incident, details were still unclear as no one had reached the site yet. Both state TV and Iranian news agency IRNA have not provided any updates on Raisi's condition, but hard-liners have asked for prayers for the president.
Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi stated that the helicopter made a hard landing due to bad weather and fog, and that rescue teams were on their way but may face difficulties reaching the site. The region was described as "a bit remote" and the weather conditions were not favorable.
Rescuers faced challenges as they made their way through the mountainous and forested area, with heavy rain and fog reported. State TV showed footage of SUVs speeding through the woods, trying to reach the location.
President Raisi's visit to Azerbaijan was meant to inaugurate a dam with President Ilham Aliyev, despite the strained relations between the two countries. Iran has also expressed concern over Azerbaijan's diplomatic ties with Israel, which is seen as their main enemy in the region.
Iran's military air fleet is mostly outdated, and the country faces difficulties obtaining parts for their helicopters due to international sanctions. Raisi, a hard-liner and former judiciary leader, is viewed as a protégé of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and is seen as a potential successor.
Raisi's win in the 2021 presidential election saw the lowest turnout in Iran's history. He is also under US sanctions for his involvement in the mass execution of political prisoners in 1988. Under his leadership, the country has increased its uranium enrichment, hindering international inspections.
As rescue teams continue to work towards reaching the site of the "hard landing", the incident adds to the uncertainty surrounding Iran's future. With tensions rising in the region and ongoing conflicts, this unexpected event raises concerns for the stability and direction of the country.
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