Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who perished in a helicopter crash on Sunday. In a heartfelt message, PM Modi conveyed India’s solidarity with Iran during this period of mourning.
“Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow,” Modi stated in a post on X.
The Prime Minister had earlier voiced “deep concern” when reports surfaced that the Iranian leader’s helicopter had gone missing. Modi had expressed hope for the well-being of President Raisi and his entourage, which included Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian.
The helicopter, part of a convoy, lost contact about 30 minutes after takeoff, reportedly encountering severe weather conditions while traversing a mountainous area in East Azerbaijan province. Both President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian were among those confirmed dead.
Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also expressed his condolences, recalling his interactions with the late Iranian leaders. “Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at this time of tragedy,” Jaishankar wrote on X.
Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash.
Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024.
Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of…
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 20, 2024
The tragic incident occurs amidst escalating regional tensions, notably involving the Gaza conflict and Iran’s recent hostilities with Israel. President Raisi, who had held office since 2021, had recently reaffirmed Iran’s support for Palestine during a speech at a dam inauguration.
India and Iran recently strengthened their bilateral ties with a 10-year contract signed on May 13 for the operation of the strategic Iranian port of Chabahar, aimed at enhancing trade with Central Asia.
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