Hundreds of thousands of Iranians gathered for the first funeral stop to honor the deceased officials. The funeral procession will continue from Tabriz to Qom, then to the capital, Tehran, before concluding in Mashhad. In Mashhad, the bodies will be laid to rest next to the shrine of Imam Ali Ibn Mousa al-Rida.

Local sources reported widespread sorrow in Mashhad and other Iranian cities and provinces, with testimonials highlighting President Raisi's dedication to the country's youth and his frequent engagements with the populace to address their demands.

The tragic helicopter crash in Iran's East Azerbaijan Province resulted in the deaths of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and accompanying officials. Iranian state media confirmed the incident, with the Red Crescent Society (IRCS) noting that there were "no signs of life" near the wreckage.

Iranian Leader Sayyed Ali Khamenei extended his condolences to the nation over the "martyrdom-like" passing of President Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, and their entourage. "With deep sorrow and regret, I have received the bitter news of the martyrdom of the people’s President, the competent, hard-working Haj Sayyed Ebrahim Raisi, and his esteemed entourage," Khamenei stated on his X account.

Following the crash, Ali Bagheri Kani, the assistant minister of foreign affairs, has been appointed as the acting minister of foreign affairs. Mohammad Mokhber has been appointed as the acting president.

In response to the tragedy, the Three Powers Committee in Iran has scheduled presidential elections for June 28, with the appointment of a new president set for July 8. (ILKHA)