Tragedy in Iran: Helicopter crash claims President Ebrahim Raisi
We have received the report from the General Staff of the Ground Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army regarding the helicopter crash with President Ebrahim Raisi on board. Military investigators did not find any evidence of sabotage or an explosion. It was previously reported that there were no signs of gunfire or similar traces on the wreckage.
The helicopter crash occurred in Iran on May 19 at 11:30 AM ET. Onboard were President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hosein Amir Abdollahian, and two military commanders. They were all returning from Azerbaijan, where a dam on the Aras River was inaugurated.
The investigators' report indicates that after examining the wreck and helicopter parts at the crash site, an explosion during the flight or at the moment of impact has been ruled out.
The helicopter's maintenance records were also reviewed. No anomalies were found that could have contributed to the crash, and the aircraft was not overloaded, either, according to the investigators.
No interruptions or cyberattack. Investigation results
The Iranian general staff issued the initial statement five days after the crash. At that time, it was already reported that there were no signs of gunfire or similar traces on the wreck.
Investigators clarified that interruptions in the communication system were ruled out. Contact on designated frequencies was lost only 69 seconds before the crash. The possibility of a cyberattack on the helicopter was also ruled out.
The helicopter crashed into the mountainside and caught fire. Search efforts were hindered by bad weather, including rain and thick fog.
Who was Ebrahim Raisi?
Ebrahim Raisi, 63, was the President of Iran since 2021. He was known for his ultra-conservative views. He expressed support for Russia in its war with Ukraine, and his country supplied Putin with military drones.
During his term, tensions with Israel increased. In 2022, when protests erupted after the death of young Kurdish woman Mahsa Amini in police custody, protesters were repressed, and there were executions.
