Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi killed in helicopter crash

Iran's government has arranged multiple days of mourning culminating in a funeral later this week for Raisi, who was known for his ultraconservative views and efforts to consolidate the "Axis of Resistance" against the United States and Israel. He funded Hamas and Hezbollah, and fed militia intelligence that fueled attacks on cargo ships in the Red Sea.

Iranian state media reported that Raisi was flying in a US-designed helicopter when it crashed, sparking speculation about whether the crash was an accident or the result of sabotage. Javad Zarif, Iran's foreign minister, blamed the United States for the crash, claiming that US sanctions had made it difficult for Iran to purchase spare parts for its fleet of ageing helicopters.

The country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared five days of mourning and appointed Vice President Mohammad Mokhber as the acting president. Iranian authorities also named Ali Bagheri as the acting foreign minister to replace Amirabdollahian. Bagheri is a close ally of Iran's ultraconservatives and has served as deputy to the foreign minister.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, 63, and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian were killed in a helicopter crash on Sunday while returning from a visit to East Azerbaijan province. The crash occurred in mountainous terrain due to bad weather, according to Iranian officials. Israel has denied any involvement in the incident. Iran's Cabinet held an emergency meeting to offer condolences and declare a day of mourning. Pakistan also announced a day of mourning following Raisi's death.