A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raeisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian had to make an emergency landing in the mountains of East Azarbaijan, northwestern Iran. Other passengers included East Azarbaijan Governor Malek Rahmati, the Friday Prayers leader of Tabriz city Mohammad Ali Al-e Hashem, and several others. The helicopter encountered problems and was forced to make a “hard landing.”
World leaders and organizations reacted to the news:
Charles Michel, President of the European Council, said on X (formerly Twitter) that he is closely monitoring the situation.
Izzat al-Rishq, a member of Hamas Political Bureau, expressed his thoughts and prayers for the safety of those on board.
Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, voiced concern and offered support for rescue efforts.
Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed shock and support for Iran.
Hassan Salem, an Iraqi parliament member, prayed for the well-being of the Iranian officials.
The US State Department is following the reports closely.
Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, and Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan, expressed their concerns and prayers.
Mohamed Shia al-Sudani, Prime Minister of Iraq, offered assistance for rescue operations.
Abdul Latif Rashid, President of Iraq, confirmed his country’s support and assistance readiness.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, expressed solidarity with the Iranian people.
Saudi Arabia expressed concern and offered assistance.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President of Turkey, expressed sadness and offered support.
Syria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed solidarity and support.
Qatar’s Foreign Ministry expressed concern and readiness to assist.
Janez Lenarcic, from the European Commission, activated satellite mapping services to aid in the situation.
Several Palestinian groups, including the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Hamas, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, also expressed their solidarity and support for Iran, hoping for the safety of the Iranian officials.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry thanked the countries and international organizations for their support and offers of assistance.
