Ayatollah Imam Khamenei, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, has expressed his condolences following the tragic, martyr-like death of Hujjatul Islam Seyed Ibrahim Raisi, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran; Dr. Hosein Amir-Abdullahian, the Foreign Minister; Hujjatul Islam Ale-Hashem, the Representative of the Leader in East Azerbaijan; Dr. Rahmati, the Governor of East Azerbaijan; and their esteemed entourage in a devastating air accident.

The text of the Leader’s message is as follows:

In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful

“Indeed, we are from Allah, and to Him do we return.”

It is with profound sorrow and deep regret that I received the heartbreaking news of the martyr-like passing of the combatant cleric, the popular and capable President, the devoted servant of Imam Reza (peace be upon him), His Eminence Hujjatul Islam wa al-Muslimeen Hajj Seyed Ibrahim Raisi, and his esteemed entourage. May God’s mercy be upon them.

This tragic incident occurred during an act of service. Throughout his tenure, both as President and before, this noble and selfless man devoted himself tirelessly to serving the people, the country, and Islam.

The beloved Raisi did not know the meaning of fatigue. Iran has lost a sincere, devoted, and valuable servant due to this unfortunate incident. He prioritized the people’s welfare and satisfaction, reflecting divine satisfaction above all else. Consequently, his grievances from ingratitude and criticism from some ill-intentioned individuals did not deter his relentless efforts for progress and reform day and night.

In this tragic incident, prominent figures such as Hujjatul Islam Ale-Hashem, the beloved and reputable Friday Prayer Leader of Tabriz; Mr. Amir-Abdullahian, the combatant and active Foreign Minister; Mr. Malik Rahmati, the revolutionary and religiously devout Governor of East Azerbaijan; the flight crew, and other entourage members all went to meet their Lord.

I hereby declare five days of national mourning and extend my condolences to the dear people of Iran. According to Article 131 of the Constitution, Mr. Mukhber will assume the role of managing the executive branch and, along with the heads of the legislative and judicial powers, is entrusted with arranging the election of a new president within a maximum of fifty days.

Finally, I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mr. Raisi’s esteemed mother, his noble and respected wife, his other surviving family members, and the honorable families of his entourage, especially Mr. Ale-Hashem’s venerable father. I pray for their patience, solace, and divine mercy for the deceased.