Tributes have poured in from across the globe for Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi after his death was announced early on Monday.
Raisi, aged 63, was confirmed dead this morning following a helicopter crash on Sunday.
Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was also killed in the crash, along with several others.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “I am deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening the India-Iran bilateral relationship will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow.”
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that his country will observe a day of mourning, and the national flag will fly at half-mast.
“I, along with the government and people of Pakistan, extend our deepest condolences and sympathies to the Iranian nation on this terrible loss. May the martyred souls rest in heavenly peace,” stated Prime Minister Sharif.
“Pakistan had the pleasure of hosting President Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian on a historic visit less than a month ago. They were good friends of Pakistan. Pakistan will observe a day of mourning, and the flag will fly at half-mast as a mark of respect for President Raisi and his companions,” he added.
The President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, said, “I extend my deepest condolences to the Iranian government and people over the passing of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and those accompanying them following a tragic accident. We pray that God grants them eternal rest, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to their families. The UAE stands in solidarity with Iran at this difficult time.”
President Nicolás Maduro of Venezuela hailed President Raisi as an unconditional friend and defender of his people.
“I am shocked by the sad news about the physical loss of the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi. Cilia, who is a friend of his wife, and I are deeply saddened to bid farewell to such an exemplary person, an extraordinary world leader, our brother Ebrahim, an excellent human being, defender of the sovereignty of his people, and an unconditional friend of our country.”
President William Ruto described Raisi as a fearless leader and a dedicated public servant with a long and distinguished career in public service.
“He was a firm leader committed to the causes that he believed in and sought to elevate Iran’s standing on the global stage.”
