Rescuers have located the helicopter that crashed with Iran's president on board. The crash is believed to be an accident, but there are concerns that Iran may falsely accuse one of its adversaries of foul play. The likely cause of the crash is attributed to heavy fog in the mountainous forested region of northern Iran where the incident occurred.
Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei has assured the country that state affairs will continue without disruption. In the event of the president's incapacity, the first vice president, Mohammad Makhbar, would assume power according to Iran's succession plan. Iran's support for Hamas is expected to persist despite the crash.
The White House has been briefed on the situation, and E.U. officials have offered emergency technology assistance at the crash site. Transparency regarding the crash details from the supreme leader is anticipated to be limited, as there may be a desire to protect those involved and potentially shift blame to external parties.
Several countries, including Turkey, have extended support to Iran following the crash. Turkey, a NATO member, has dispatched vehicles, capabilities, and a search and rescue helicopter to the crash site. The involvement of neighboring countries and expressions of condolences from nations not aligned with the United States have been noted.
The supreme leader, who holds significant power over foreign policy and Iran's nuclear programs, is 85 years old and is reportedly a mentor to President Raisi, who is 65. Raisi is considered a potential contender for the position of supreme leader. The status of President Raisi and other officials on board the helicopter remains uncertain, with reports suggesting potential survivors and ongoing search efforts at the crash site.
The situation is evolving, and details regarding the crash and any potential survivors are awaited. The succession process in Iran, should it be required, is expected to follow established policies and procedures.
