President Nechirvan Barzani Expresses Condolences to Iran Following Tragic Helicopter Crash
President Nechirvan Barzani has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Islamic Republic of Iran in the wake of a devastating helicopter crash that resulted in the tragic deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hussein Amir Abdullahian, and several other companions.
In a solemn statement, President Barzani conveyed deep sorrow over the incident: "The sad news of the deaths of the late President Ebrahim Raisi, the late Foreign Minister Hussein Amir Abdullahian, and a number of their companions in the crash of their helicopter made us deeply saddened."
He further extended his sympathies to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Iranian leadership, government, and people, as well as to the families of the deceased. "In this difficult time, we express our deepest condolences to the Leader of the Islamic Republic, His Excellency Sayyed Ali Khamenei, his leadership, government, friendly people of our neighboring country, and the families of the deceased. We ask God to bless the souls of the deceased with His mercy and give peace and comfort to everyone," the statement read.
I’m following the news of the helicopter incident carrying Iran’s President Raisi with deep concern. I hope that all on board are safe and sound. We stand in solidarity with the leadership and people of Iran during this difficult time.
— Nechirvan Barzani (@IKRPresident) May 19, 2024
President Barzani acknowledged the significant loss represented by Raisi's death but expressed confidence in Iran's resilience: "The death of the late President Raisi is a great loss for the Islamic Republic, the Muslim people of Iran, and its friends, but we are sure that the brave people of Iran and the Islamic Republic will overcome this loss. May Allah help and protect everyone and bless the memory of the deceased."
Iranian media reported on Monday the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and his delegation after their helicopter crashed in a rugged mountainous area in northwest Iran. The helicopter, which went missing on Sunday, was found with "no sign" of life in the wreckage. Mehr News Agency announced, "Mr. Ebrahim Raisi was martyred" along with Foreign Minister Hussein Amir Abdullahian.
In a somber tribute, official media broadcast a picture of Raisi accompanied by verses from the Holy Quran. While an official announcement is still pending, former Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and other officials have expressed their condolences on social media.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, with leaders and citizens alike mourning the loss of key Iranian figures and contemplating the implications of this tragic event on the nation's political landscape.
