The United States confirmed on Monday that Iran sought assistance following a helicopter crash that claimed the life of President Ebrahim Raisi, despite Washington’s acknowledgment of his contentious legacy. The State Department disclosed that Iran, despite the absence of diplomatic ties since 1979, reached out after Raisi’s chopper went down in foggy weather on Sunday.
“We were asked by the Iranian government for assistance,” stated State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.
Although the US offered condolences over the tragedy, officials emphasized Raisi’s controversial past. As a judge, Raisi oversaw mass executions, and his presidency saw crackdowns on protests, particularly those led by women. Despite acknowledging Raisi’s troubling record, the Biden administration deemed condolences as standard protocol.
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin clarified that US forces remained unchanged post-crash, indicating no significant regional security impact. Austin dismissed any US involvement, attributing the incident to potential mechanical failure or pilot error. Iran’s military initiated an investigation, while former foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif attributed the crash to US sanctions hindering aviation part procurement.
In response to Zarif’s claim, Miller stressed Iran’s responsibility for operating a decades-old helicopter under adverse weather conditions.
Masih Alinejad, a prominent women’s rights activist targeted by an alleged Iranian assassination plot, criticized the condolence gestures, citing the ongoing oppression under Raisi’s regime.
The incident occurred amidst reported US-Iran talks in Oman aimed at regional stability following tensions with Israel. Despite strained relations, the US affirmed its commitment to assisting any government in crisis situations.
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