Iranian President Raisi’s Helicopter Crashes; Condition Unknown

Iranian President Raisi's Helicopter Crashes; Condition Unknown (image: Reuters)

Dil Bar Irshad | May 19, 2024 | 11:29 PM IST | Iran, World | Follow on Google News

Iranian President Raisi’s Helicopter Crashes; Condition Unknown

Iranian President Raisi’s Helicopter Crashes; Condition Unknown

Key Highlights:

1. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter made a “hard landing.”
2. Rescue operations are hampered by dense fog and heavy rain.
3. The condition of President Raisi and his companions remains unknown.

Tehran [Iran], May 19 After Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s helicopter made a “hard landing,” his Instagram account urged people to ‘pray’ for him, as his condition remains unknown, according to CNN. “We call on fellow countrymen to pray for the wellbeing of the President and companions,” read a story shared on Raisi’s Instagram.

The incident occurred in Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province, and the state news agency IRNA reported that the president’s condition is currently unknown. Health Minister Bahram Eynollahi noted the extreme fog at the crash site, which has made rescue operations difficult. “We have set up treatment facilities and deployed all medical resources, including emergency medicine, surgery, and ambulances,” Eynollahi stated on state TV. Rescue forces are actively searching the area.

The Iranian military, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and police command, are involved in the search and investigation efforts. Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri confirmed the deployment of all available resources to locate and provide relief for the president and his companions. The source of the crash is under investigation.

Iran’s Interior Minister confirmed the “hard landing” earlier today, noting the challenging weather conditions. “Various rescue groups are moving towards the site, but due to fog and bad weather, it may take time to reach the area. The work is under control,” he said.

Local media reported heavy rain and dense fog in the Varzaghan District, complicating the search efforts. No information on injuries or damage has been released. The crash occurred as President Raisi was landing in the Varzaqan region after attending a dam opening ceremony near the Azerbaijan border. Several high officials, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, were also on board.

Rescue teams have reached Jolfa in East Azerbaijan Province and are continuing their efforts to locate the helicopter. The region’s challenging terrain and poor visibility are major obstacles.

{Sources(Imputs) From CNN & Press Tv}

Dil Bar Irshad

Dil Bar Irshad is a seasoned journalist, hails from Jammu Kashmir's Doda, covers political, social, business stories, index stories.