In a tragic incident that happened on Monday, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, along with the nation’s foreign minister and several other officials, died in a helicopter crash. The helicopter went down in a mountainous area in Iran’s northwest, as reported by state media.
Temporary Presidency Assumed by Mohammad Mokhber
Following the death of President Raisi, Iran’s first vice president, Mohammad Mokhber, has been appointed as the temporary president. This transition was confirmed by Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in accordance with Article 131 of the Iranian Constitution.
This article states that the first vice president takes over the presidency temporarily if the president passes away during their term.
Mohammad Mokhber’s role as president is temporary. A council, which includes Mokhber, the speaker of the Parliament, and the head of the judiciary, must organize a new presidential election within a maximum period of 50 days. This council is responsible for ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining stability in the country during this period.
Profile of Mohammad Mokhber
Born on September 1, 1955, Mohammad Mokhber has a close relationship with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who holds the ultimate authority in Iranian affairs. Mokhber became the first vice president in 2021, following Raisi’s election to the presidency.
Before this role, Mokhber headed Setad, an investment fund linked to the supreme leader, managing properties abandoned after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Setad’s proceeds are directed towards charitable causes.
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International Involvement and Sanctions
Mokhber has been involved in important international negotiations. In October, he was part of a delegation that negotiated with Moscow to provide surface-to-surface missiles and drones to Russia’s military. This delegation included officials from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards and the Supreme National Security Council.
In 2010, Mokhber was subject to EU sanctions for alleged involvement in nuclear or ballistic missile activities but was removed from the sanctions list in 2012. However, in 2013, the US Treasury Department sanctioned Setad and its associated companies.
As Iran mourns the loss of President Raisi and other officials, the nation now looks towards organizing new elections within the stipulated 50-day period. The council led by Mohammad Mokhber, along with the speaker of the Parliament and the head of the judiciary, will play a crucial role in this transition. The coming weeks will be crucial for Iran’s political stability and future leadership.
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