Payam Javan: Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, 63, and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, 60, were found dead following a helicopter crash in a foggy, mountainous region of Iran’s East Azerbaijan province, state media reported on Monday. The helicopter carried additional officials and bodyguards. Turkish authorities released drone footage early Monday showing a suspected crash site fire near the Azerbaijan-Iran border.

Raisi’s death occurs amid heightened regional tensions due to the Israel-Hamas war and recent Iranian drone-and-missile attacks on Israel. Under Raisi, Iran enriched uranium closer to weapons-grade levels, increased support for Russian military efforts in Ukraine, and continued arming regional militias. The country also faced widespread protests over economic issues and women’s rights.

Ali Khamenei called for public prayers and assured continuity of government operations. Iran’s Vice First President Mohammad Mokhber will assume presidential duties pending a new election within 50 days, as required by the Iranian constitution.

Raisi, a hard-liner and former judiciary head, was seen as a potential successor to Khamenei. His death leaves open questions about future leadership, with discussions centering on Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei.