On Tuesday, the funeral ceremonies for Iranian President Ebrahim Raïssi began in Tabriz, where he died in a helicopter crash on Sunday. The conservative leader had been in power since 2021 and was a strong contender to succeed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Many countries, including allies like Hezbollah and Hamas, have expressed condolences over his passing.
Raïssi’s remains will first be taken to the holy city of Qom before being transferred to Tehran for a farewell ceremony led by Ayatollah Khamenei. The cause of the crash is under investigation. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared five days of mourning and appointed Vice President Mohammad Mokhber as interim president after Raïssi’s death.
Raïssi was known for his support of the Palestinians, a stance that was reaffirmed in his final speech before the accident. The nation is now preparing for presidential elections scheduled for June 28. Rallies are being held in various cities across Iran as people mourn and pay their respects to the fallen leader.
