A helicopter transporting Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi experienced a “hard landing” on Sunday, as reported by Iranian state television. The incident occurred in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province, near Jolfa, a city bordering Azerbaijan, approximately 600 kilometers northwest of Tehran, news agency AP reported.
According to AP’s report, rescue efforts have been hindered by adverse weather conditions in the area, with heavy rain and strong winds reported. President Raisi was traveling in the region following his participation in the inauguration of a dam alongside Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.
Raisi, 63, is known for his hard-line stance, having previously served as the country’s judiciary chief. He is considered a close ally of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, leading to speculation that he could succeed the 85-year-old leader in the future.
Raisi’s presidency has been marked by controversy, including his involvement in the mass execution of political prisoners in 1988, for which he faces U.S. sanctions. Under his leadership, Iran has escalated its uranium enrichment activities and has been implicated in various regional conflicts, including supporting proxy groups in the Middle East.
Notably, Iran’s aviation fleet faces challenges due to international sanctions, making it difficult to procure necessary parts for maintenance. The country’s military air assets largely date back to before the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The exact cause of the helicopter’s “hard landing” has not been disclosed, and further details are awaited as rescue operations continue.
