The tragic news of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash on Monday triggered an outpouring of condolences from world leaders.
In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief, acknowledging Raisi’s contributions to strengthening the bilateral relationship between India and Iran.
“Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow,” PM Modi said in a post on X
Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed his condolences to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying that Raisi was a true friend of Russia.
“Please accept my deep condolences in connection with the great tragedy that befell the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Putin told Khamenei in a message, the Kremlin said.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov hailed Raisi as a true patriot of the Islamic Republic and a reliable friend of Russia.
China’s President Xi Jinping also offered condolences through the Chinese foreign ministry.
Iraq’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shiaa Al-Sudani expressed solidarity with Iran during this time of grief and prayed for strength and unity for Raisi’s family and loved ones.
Pakistan declared a day of mourning and flew its flag at half-mast to honor Raisi and his companions who perished in the crash.
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a post on X, extended deepest condolences to “Brotherly Iran” on behalf of himself and the Pakistani people and government.
“The great Iranian nation will overcome this tragedy with customary courage,” Sharif said.
Expressing regret, Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said, “From the first moment we heard of the accident, we have been in contact with the Iranian authorities and mobilised all means to assist (rescue) efforts. Relevant institutions including our Defence Ministry and AFAD disaster authority did their best but unfortunately we weren’t able to hear good news.”
Lebanon announced three days of national mourning for Raisi, while the country’s armed group Hezbollah also offered condolences.
Other prominent figures, including the Head of Yemen’s Houthi Supreme Revolutionary Committee, Mohammed Ali Al-Houthi, and Qatar’s Prime Minister, were among those who extended their condolences to the Iranian people.
(Input from agencies)