LIVE Updates: Iranian President Dies in Helicopter Crash, Vice President Assumes Office

"Stay informed with live updates: Iranian President tragically perishes in helicopter crash, prompting Vice President to assume office. Follow for the latest developments on this unfolding event."

Approximately 30 minutes into the flight, communication was lost with the helicopter transporting President Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and additional officials.

According to Iranian media reports, President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran lost his life in a helicopter accident in East Azerbaijan province on Sunday. The helicopter, which was transporting President Raisi and his Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, vanished over a mountainous area.

Iran's state television reported that there were "no signs" of life among the passengers of the helicopter. The statement from state TV mentioned, "Upon locating the helicopter, there was no indication that any of the helicopter's passengers were alive at that time."

The tragic helicopter crash occurs amidst heightened regional tensions, notably amid the Gaza conflict and escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. President Raisi, in office since 2021, had consistently voiced Iran's strong support for Palestine, reaffirming this commitment during a recent speech at a dam inauguration.

On Sunday, Iran's state media released videos showing the leader aboard the helicopter. The footage depicts the Iranian leader gazing out of a window while the camera captures several senior officials, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, seated across from him.

Source: ndtv