What it’s about
TEHRAN, Iran — The streets of Tehran were overwhelmed Wednesday as tens of thousands gathered for the funeral processions of President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage. Raisi, along with Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, tragically perished in a helicopter crash on a fog-covered mountainside in northern Iran on Sunday.
Why it matters
The death of Raisi, who was poised to become Iran’s supreme leader, marks a pivotal moment in Iranian politics and has triggered a surge of national mourning. This event has wide-ranging implications for regional stability and geopolitical dynamics, especially considering Iran’s contentious activities and policies.
Funeral and Tributes
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei will lead the prayers for Raisi and his companions at Tehran University. Since the announcement of Raisi’s death, the capital has been adorned with banners. Citizens have been receiving messages encouraging participation in the funeral, lauding Raisi as a “martyr of service.”
Massive Ceremonial Processions
Foreign dignitaries are also expected to attend the solemn processions, which will move from Tehran University to Enghelab Square. Burial rites, including ceremonies in Tabriz and Qom, are already underway. Raisi will eventually be laid to rest in his hometown of Mashhad, after rites at the Imam Reza shrine.
Governance Amidst Crisis
Ayatollah Khamenei has declared five days of national mourning. Immediate steps have been taken to stabilize the leadership by appointing Vice President Mohammad Mokhber as caretaker president and Ali Bagheri as acting foreign minister.
Implications for Israel and Western Powers
Raisi’s tenure significantly impacted Iranian-Israeli relations, leading to heightened tensions. His policies were marked by regional hostility and deepening Iran’s alliances with Russia, China, and militant groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah. Israel has expressed strong disapproval of global condolences due to Raisi’s controversial legacy, which includes overseeing mass executions and espousing repressive policies.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.