May 20, 2024 – Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian have been confirmed dead following a tragic helicopter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan province. State media reported that the helicopter carrying the senior officials disappeared over a mountainous region and was found with no signs of survivors. The crash occurred amid heightened regional tensions, particularly involving Iran's support for Palestinian groups and recent escalations with Israel. President Raisi, who has been in office since 2021, was a vocal supporter of Palestine and had recently reiterated his stance during a public appearance.

State television shared footage of President Raisi aboard the helicopter shortly before the crash, showing him looking out the window with senior officials seated nearby. The helicopter's disappearance triggered a lengthy search in challenging conditions.

This incident marks a significant blow to Iran's political landscape. Ebrahim Raisi, often referred to as the Butcher of Tehran for his role in past crackdowns, was a controversial yet powerful figure in Iran's government. His death, along with that of the hardline Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, is expected to spark a power struggle within Iran's political hierarchy. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other government officials have yet to comment extensively on the incident.