Fear and worry weighed on Iran as the Islamic Republic waited for news on the fate of President Ebrahim Raisi after his helicopter went missing in a foggy mountain area. Watch in for more details!

Ebrahim Raisi Helicopter Crash: World leaders condole death of Ebrahim Raisi

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Iran VP MD Mokhber to be Interim President - South Africa top court bars Zuma's candidacy - Nepal PM wins vote of confidence - Iran's President Raisi killed in chopper crash - World leaders express condolences on Raisi's death

Iran mourns President Raisi's death | Israelis up heat on Netanyahu

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and 8 others died in a helicopter crash in mountainous terrain and icy weather, Iranian officials confirmed on Monday after search teams located the wreckage. Watch in for more details!

Ebrahim Raisi news: Raisi's chopper crashed on the way back from visit to Azerbaijan

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi along with Iranian Foreign Minister have been killed in chopper crash. The fateful incident occurred after more than 12 hours of search and rescue operations. The death has sent shockwaves around the globe. The pertinent question what happens next.

Ebrahim Raisi Helicopter Crash: President Raisi and 8 other killed in chopper crash

Ebrahim Raisi Helicopter Crash: Iran President Raisi dead in chopper crash

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Iran VP MD Mokhber to be Interim President - South Africa top court bars Zuma's candidacy - Nepal PM wins vote of confidence - Iran's President Raisi killed in chopper crash - World leaders express condolences

Iran VP MD Mokhber to be Interim President | Nepal PM wins vote of confidence

Ebrahim Raisi news: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi killed in chopper crash

Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi was killed in a helicopter crash. His helicopter crashed in mountainous terrain amid icy weather. Watch this video to know what happens in Iran when a President dies in office.

What happens in Iran when a President dies in office?

Iranian President Embrahim Raisi along with Iranian Foreign Minister have been killed in chopper crash. The fateful incident occurred after more than 12 hours of search and rescue operations. The death has sent shockwaves around the globe. The pertinent question what happens next.

Ebrahim Raisi Helicopter Crash: Raisi killed in chopper crash

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and 8 others died in a helicopter crash in mountainous terrain and icy weather, Iranian officials confirmed on Monday after search teams located the wreckage.

Ebrahim Raisi news: Iran President Raisi dies in helicopter crash, Vice President takes over

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Iran's Prez Raisi killed in chopper crash - World leaders express condolences - Oil rises after Raisi's death - Key Russian oil plant hit in drone attack - China targets US defence imports - Comet fragment lights up Spain & Portugal skies

Key Russian oil plant hit in drone attack | World leaders express condolences

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's last video taken aboard the doomed helicopter, which crashed moments after, has emerged. Raisi, along with the country's foreign minister and other officials died in a fatal helicopter crash in the mountainous region, state media and officials said on Monday (May 20).

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi's last video taken aboard the doomed helicopter, which crashed moments after, has emerged. Raisi, along with the country's foreign minister and other officials died in a fatal helicopter crash in the mountainous region, state media and officials said on Monday (May 20). In the last video released by Iranian state media, Raisi was seen calmly sitting inside the helicopter moments before it went down and took his life. ایرانی صدر ابراہیم رئیسائی کا آخری سفر، ہیلی کاپٹر حادثے سے پہلے ڈیم کے فضائی دورے کی ویڈیو۔۔!!#Iran pic.twitter.com/LOn5h1Lsdq — Khurram Iqbal (@khurram143) May 20, 2024 × Raisi is seen looking down pensively from his window seat in the image. He appears to be lost in his thoughts, innocent of what's in store for him seconds later. Raisi was accompanied by Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, Friday prayer Imam Seyyed Mohammad-Ali Al-Hashem as well as other high-ranking state officials. Here's how the incident unfolded Raisi was confirmed dead by Iranian media outlets on Monday after his helicopter crashed on Sunday. "The president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, had an accident while serving and performing his duty for the people of Iran and was martyred," stated the local Mehr news agency. Also Read: Iran President Raisi helicopter crash: Who all were on board the doomed chopper? As per the report, the helicopter carrying Raisi met with an accident in the Jolfa region of East Azerbaijan province as it flew in bad weather conditions. The accident took place in Dizmar's mountainous protected forest area near the town of Varzaghan, as reported by the official IRNA news agency. Iran's Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand had earlier said that the helicopter had been located by the rescue teams and they were heading towards the site. State TV had reported earlier that there were "no signs" of life among passengers "as of yet." Raisi gained power in the presidential elections of 2021 and was believed to be close to Iran's Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei. Watch: Ebrahim Raisi news: Raisi's helicopter Bell 212 manufactured in US; what we know about the chopper In his term, Iran faced one of the country's biggest protests since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The protests erupted in 2022 after an Iranian woman Mahsa Amini died in police custody which led to massive demonstrations. The government brutally hunted down the protesters for several months. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, who also died in the crash, was a conservative leader who enjoyed the support of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC). He mentored the loose coalition of militant organisations and proxies in the country, which was called the “axis of resistance.” (With inputs from agencies)

Iranian President Raisi's last video aboard helicopter emerges moments before fatal crash

A wave of shock passed through Iran. The nation lost its President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash. Raisi was accompanied by Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. Now that the President passed away, Iran's first vice president will serve as interim Iranian President. Mohammad Mokhber, Iran's first vice president, is expected to become interim president.

Who is Mohammad Mokhber, the man set to become Iran's interim president?

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a fatal helicopter crash in the country's mountainous region, confirmed the Iranian media on Monday (May 20). The convoy of Raisi comprised three helicopters which included two which safely landed in the northwestern city of Tabriz.

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a fatal helicopter crash in the country's mountainous region, confirmed the Iranian media on Monday (May 20). The convoy of Raisi comprised three helicopters which included two which safely landed in the northwestern city of Tabriz. Who all were in the helicopter? Iranian President Raisi was accompanied by Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, East Azerbaijan Governor Malek Rahmati and the province's main imam in the helicopter, as reported by the IRNA news agency. However, the exact number of people travelling in the helicopter with Raisi is yet to be confirmed. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi Raisi gained power in the presidential elections of 2021 and was believed to be close to Iran's Supreme Leader Seyyed Ali Hosseini Khamenei. During his term, Iran faced one of the country's biggest protests since the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The protests erupted in 2022 after an Iranian woman Mahsa Amini died in police custody which led to massive demonstrations. The government brutally hunted down the protesters for several months. Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was a conservative leader of the country, who enjoyed the support of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corp (IRGC). Also Read: Iran Prez Raisi dies in chopper crash He supported the loose coalition of militant organisations and proxies in the country, which was called the “axis of resistance.” Governor of East Azerbaijan Malek Rahmati was recently appointed East Azerbaijan province's new governor by the Iranian Cabinet. Rahmati was earlier appointed the head of Iran’s Privatization Organisation. He had replaced Zeinolabedin Khorram who was East Azerbaijan's top administrative official for two years. Mohammad Ali al-Hashim Iran’s supreme leader’s representative in East Azerbaijan province and an imam in Tabriz, Mohammad Ali al-Hashim was also among those dead. Al-Hashim is a member of the Expediency Council's provincial chamber and a provincial deputy in the Assembly of Experts. Here's what happened Raisi was confirmed dead by Iranian media outlets on Monday (May 20) after his helicopter crashed. "The president of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, had an accident while serving and performing his duty for the people of Iran and was martyred," stated the local Mehr news agency. Watch: Ebrahim Raisi news: Iran President Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdollahian killed in chopper crash As per the report, the helicopter carrying Raisi met an accident in the Jolfa region of East Azerbaijan province on Sunday (May 19), as it flew in bad weather conditions. The accident took place in Dizmar's mountainous protected forest area near the town of Varzaghan, as reported by the official IRNA news agency. Iran's Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand had earlier said that the helicopter had been located by the rescue teams and they were heading towards the site. State TV had reported that there were "no signs" of life among passengers "as of yet." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran President Raisi helicopter crash: Who all were on board the doomed chopper?

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash, officials and state media announced on Monday (May 20).&nbsp;&nbsp;How does the Iranian constitution manage the transition of leadership when an Iranian president dies while in office, and who takes over?

As per a&nbsp;Reuters news agency report, Article 131 of the Iranian constitution stipulates that the first vice president assumes the role of acting president in case the Iranian president dies. However, this transition can only happen with the confirmation by the Supreme Leader. He is the one who holds ultimate authority in state matters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deploy-47-rescue-specialists-helicopter-after-raisis-aircraft-crashes-723207">Russia to deploy 47 rescue specialists, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes</a>

Currently, Mohammad Mokhber, a close ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, is the vice president.

Later, a council comprised of the first vice president, the speaker of parliament, and the head of the judiciary is responsible for organising a new presidential election within a maximum of 50 days.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-ebrahim-raisi-irans-hardline-president-who-went-missing-after-helicopter-crash-723196">Who is Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s hardline president who went&nbsp;‘missing’&nbsp;after helicopter crash?</a>

63-year-old President Raisi, elected in 2021, is expected to serve until the next scheduled elections in 2025.

Jason Brodsky, policy director at United Against Nuclear Iran, told a media outlet that the president of Iran is more of an "implementer" of policies rather than a "decision-maker".

He noted that the core policies of the Islamic Republic would remain unchanged regardless of who is president.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/raisis-convoy-helicopter-accident-all-resources-being-used-in-search-operation-iran-army-chief-723198">Raisi's convoy helicopter accident | All resources being used in search operation: Iran Army Chief</a>

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In the event of the death of an Iranian president, several powerful officials would be eager to ascend the regime's hierarchy.

Such an event would test the resilience of Khamenei's regime.

Raisi is considered a top contender to eventually succeed Khamenei, given his extensive background as a cleric, and a former chief justice.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash, officials and state media announced on Monday (May 20). How does the Iranian constitution manage the transition of leadership when an Iranian president dies while in office, and who takes over?

Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash, officials and state media announced on Monday (May 20). How does the Iranian constitution manage the transition of leadership when an Iranian president dies while in office, and who takes over? As per a Reuters news agency report, Article 131 of the Iranian constitution stipulates that the first vice president assumes the role of acting president in case the Iranian president dies. However, this transition can only happen with the confirmation by the Supreme Leader. He is the one who holds ultimate authority in state matters. Also Read | Russia to deploy 47 rescue specialists, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes Currently, Mohammad Mokhber, a close ally of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, is the vice president. Later, a council comprised of the first vice president, the speaker of parliament, and the head of the judiciary is responsible for organising a new presidential election within a maximum of 50 days. Also Read | Who is Ebrahim Raisi, Iran’s hardline president who went ‘missing’ after helicopter crash? 63-year-old President Raisi, elected in 2021, is expected to serve until the next scheduled elections in 2025. Jason Brodsky, policy director at United Against Nuclear Iran, told a media outlet that the president of Iran is more of an "implementer" of policies rather than a "decision-maker". He noted that the core policies of the Islamic Republic would remain unchanged regardless of who is president. Watch | Raisi's convoy helicopter accident | All resources being used in search operation: Iran Army Chief × In the event of the death of an Iranian president, several powerful officials would be eager to ascend the regime's hierarchy. Such an event would test the resilience of Khamenei's regime. Raisi is considered a top contender to eventually succeed Khamenei, given his extensive background as a cleric, and a former chief justice. (With inputs from agencies)

Ebrahim Raisi death: What is the procedure after Iranian president dies while in office?

2024 Iran Presidential helicopter crash: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi has died&nbsp;in the chopper crash,&nbsp;confirmed the local media&nbsp;quoting&nbsp;Deputy President of Executive Affairs&nbsp;Mohsen Mansouri, who said&nbsp;"To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return..."

The people who died in the crash on Sunday (May 19) in north-western Iran,&nbsp;included the country's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and 9 others.

Among the&nbsp;killed in the crash also included East Azerbaijan Province Governor Malek Rahmati.&nbsp;Medics had said that they found “no signs” of life at the crash site and that all on the aircraft were killed.&nbsp;

Iranian state TV said that there is 'no sign of life' at the crash site of the helicopter carrying&nbsp;63-year-old Raisi. This comes as rescue teams scurrying for the aircraft spotted it from a distance, as per an official who spoke with Iranian state media.

<h2>2024 Iran Presidential helicopter crash</h2>

While suggesting that the situation is "not good",&nbsp;Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand earlier said,&nbsp;"The helicopter has been found. Now, we are moving toward the helicopter."&nbsp;

A Turkish drone - Bayraktar Akinci - involved in the search for President Raisi's helicopter has detected a heat source, reports said citing Anadolu news agency.&nbsp;Turkey provided the&nbsp;coordinates of this location to the Iranian authorities, the report added.&nbsp;

Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) reportedly said that the images captured by the Turkish drone were assessed. Rescue forces are anticipated to arrive at the location identified by the drone within the next half hour, IRIB further added.&nbsp;

Chief of the Red Crescent in Iran's East Azerbaijan province stated that rescue teams are being dispatched to the identified area, to continue&nbsp;their search efforts to locate the missing plane carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-is-the-constitutional-procedure-in-case-an-iranian-president-dies-in-office-723212">What is the constitutional procedure in case an Iranian President dies in office?</a>

This area is reportedly&nbsp;the crash site and is located in an area called Tavil.&nbsp;Iran's Press TV additionally confirmed that rescue teams are en route to this location.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-deploy-47-rescue-specialists-helicopter-after-raisis-aircraft-crashes-723207">Russia to deploy 47 rescue specialists, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes</a>

As per reports citing&nbsp;flight-tracking websites, the drone's route was seen in north-western Iran.&nbsp;

<h2>US leader reacts to Raisi's plane crash&nbsp;</h2>

US Senator Chuck Schumer&nbsp;citing discussions with US intelligence officials, said that "at this point there is no evidence of foul play".

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-israeli-cabinet-split-over-gaza-post-war-plan-israel-government-on-the-brink-723200">Israel-Hamas war: Israeli cabinet split over Gaza post-war plan | Israel Government on the brink?</a>

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"It was very bad foggy weather in north-west Iran where the copter crashed, so it looks like an accident but it's still being fully investigated," he reportedly said at a presser.

(With inputs from agencies)

2024 Iran Presidential helicopter crash: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi has died in the chopper crash, confirmed the local media quoting Deputy President of Executive Affairs Mohsen Mansouri, who said "To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return.

2024 Iran Presidential helicopter crash: Iran President Ebrahim Raisi has died in the chopper crash, confirmed the local media quoting Deputy President of Executive Affairs Mohsen Mansouri, who said "To Allah we belong and to Him we shall return..." The people who died in the crash on Sunday (May 19) in north-western Iran, included the country's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and 9 others. Among the killed in the crash also included East Azerbaijan Province Governor Malek Rahmati. Medics had said that they found “no signs” of life at the crash site and that all on the aircraft were killed. Iranian state TV said that there is 'no sign of life' at the crash site of the helicopter carrying 63-year-old Raisi. This comes as rescue teams scurrying for the aircraft spotted it from a distance, as per an official who spoke with Iranian state media. 2024 Iran Presidential helicopter crash While suggesting that the situation is "not good", Red Crescent chief Pirhossein Koolivand earlier said, "The helicopter has been found. Now, we are moving toward the helicopter." A Turkish drone - Bayraktar Akinci - involved in the search for President Raisi's helicopter has detected a heat source, reports said citing Anadolu news agency. Turkey provided the coordinates of this location to the Iranian authorities, the report added. Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) reportedly said that the images captured by the Turkish drone were assessed. Rescue forces are anticipated to arrive at the location identified by the drone within the next half hour, IRIB further added. Chief of the Red Crescent in Iran's East Azerbaijan province stated that rescue teams are being dispatched to the identified area, to continue their search efforts to locate the missing plane carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. Also Read | What is the constitutional procedure in case an Iranian President dies in office? This area is reportedly the crash site and is located in an area called Tavil. Iran's Press TV additionally confirmed that rescue teams are en route to this location. Also Read | Russia to deploy 47 rescue specialists, helicopter after Raisi's aircraft crashes As per reports citing flight-tracking websites, the drone's route was seen in north-western Iran. US leader reacts to Raisi's plane crash US Senator Chuck Schumer citing discussions with US intelligence officials, said that "at this point there is no evidence of foul play". Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Israeli cabinet split over Gaza post-war plan | Israel Government on the brink? × "It was very bad foggy weather in north-west Iran where the copter crashed, so it looks like an accident but it's still being fully investigated," he reportedly said at a presser. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi dies in chopper crash

Iran&nbsp;President Ebrahim Raisi, and&nbsp;the country's Foreign Minister&nbsp;<bdi>Hossein Amirabdollahian&nbsp;</bdi>were&nbsp;declared dead on Monday (May 20)&nbsp;after their bodies&nbsp;were found at the crash site in a mountainous area in northwest Iran.

Media outlets, both Iranian and international, have shown pictures of the crash site where Raisi's helicopter lay in pieces on a mountain slope.

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Crash site of helicopter carrying Ebrahim Raisi. Credits: AFP

One of the photos shared on social media showed the helicopter's overturned tail in a grassy area.

Iranian officials have also stated that some of the bodies suffered severe burns, making it difficult to identify individuals at the scene, as reported by Al Jazeera.

The were total of 9 people on board when the helicopter crashed.

Raisi was travelling in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province when what state TV described as a "hard landing" occurred near Jolfa, a city on the border with Azerbaijan, approximately 600 kilometres (375 miles) northwest of Tehran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ebrahim-raisi-dies-in-helicopter-crash-all-about-vietnam-war-era-chopper-carrying-the-iran-president-723304">Also read | Ebrahim Raisi dies in helicopter crash: All about Vietnam war-era Bell 212 chopper carrying Iran president</a>

Subsequently, state TV revised the location to be further east, near the village of Uzi, although there were conflicting details about the exact location.

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According to the Tasnim news agency, Raisi’s convoy had three helicopters, and the other two "arrived safely at their destination". IRNA news agency reported that over 60 rescue teams, with the help of search dogs and drones, were dispatched to the mountainous protected forest area of Dizmar near Varzaghan town.

Authorities stated that army, Revolutionary Guard, and police personnel were involved in the search effort. Television stations aired images of Red Crescent teams ascending a mist-covered hill and lines of emergency response vehicles waiting at the scene.

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BREAKING: TRANSFERRING OF BODIES FROM HELICOPTER CRASH INVOLVING IRAN PRESIDENT RAISI <a href="https://t.co/b8J78VC0S0">pic.twitter.com/b8J78VC0S0</a>
— Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaykhSulaiman/status/1792437926443286903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2024</a></blockquote>
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IRNA referred to the location as a "forest," although the area is known for its mountainous terrain. State TV showed footage of SUVs navigating through wooded areas, noting that operations were hindered by challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain and strong winds. Rescuers were shown walking through fog and mist during the search efforts.

<h2>Other countries offered help</h2>

In a bid to lend a helping hand to Iran, Russia announced that it would dispatch a team from its Ministry of Emergency Situations to assist Iran in locating President Raisi's helicopter. The team comprised 47 specialists equipped with vehicles and a BO-105 helicopter. Iraq and the European Union also offered assistance, while Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed solidarity and readiness to support Iran during this challenging time.

Also watch | Ebrahim Raisi news: Iran President Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdollahian killed in chopper crash

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Raisi, aged 63, had recently overseen increased tensions in the Middle East, including launching a significant drone and missile attack on Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Under his leadership, Iran also enriched uranium to levels close to weapons-grade and supplied armed drones to Russia for its actions in Ukraine, while supporting militia groups across the region.

(With inputs from agencies)
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Iran President Ebrahim Raisi, and the country's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian were declared dead on Monday (May 20) after their bodies were found at the crash site in a mountainous area in northwest Iran.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi, and the country's Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian were declared dead on Monday (May 20) after their bodies were found at the crash site in a mountainous area in northwest Iran. Media outlets, both Iranian and international, have shown pictures of the crash site where Raisi's helicopter lay in pieces on a mountain slope. Crash site of helicopter carrying Ebrahim Raisi. Credits: AFP One of the photos shared on social media showed the helicopter's overturned tail in a grassy area. Iranian officials have also stated that some of the bodies suffered severe burns, making it difficult to identify individuals at the scene, as reported by Al Jazeera. The were total of 9 people on board when the helicopter crashed. Raisi was travelling in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province when what state TV described as a "hard landing" occurred near Jolfa, a city on the border with Azerbaijan, approximately 600 kilometres (375 miles) northwest of Tehran. Also read | Ebrahim Raisi dies in helicopter crash: All about Vietnam war-era Bell 212 chopper carrying Iran president Subsequently, state TV revised the location to be further east, near the village of Uzi, although there were conflicting details about the exact location. According to the Tasnim news agency, Raisi’s convoy had three helicopters, and the other two "arrived safely at their destination". IRNA news agency reported that over 60 rescue teams, with the help of search dogs and drones, were dispatched to the mountainous protected forest area of Dizmar near Varzaghan town. Authorities stated that army, Revolutionary Guard, and police personnel were involved in the search effort. Television stations aired images of Red Crescent teams ascending a mist-covered hill and lines of emergency response vehicles waiting at the scene. BREAKING: TRANSFERRING OF BODIES FROM HELICOPTER CRASH INVOLVING IRAN PRESIDENT RAISI pic.twitter.com/b8J78VC0S0 — Sulaiman Ahmed (@ShaykhSulaiman) May 20, 2024 × IRNA referred to the location as a "forest," although the area is known for its mountainous terrain. State TV showed footage of SUVs navigating through wooded areas, noting that operations were hindered by challenging weather conditions such as heavy rain and strong winds. Rescuers were shown walking through fog and mist during the search efforts. Other countries offered help In a bid to lend a helping hand to Iran, Russia announced that it would dispatch a team from its Ministry of Emergency Situations to assist Iran in locating President Raisi's helicopter. The team comprised 47 specialists equipped with vehicles and a BO-105 helicopter. Iraq and the European Union also offered assistance, while Saudi Arabia and Qatar expressed solidarity and readiness to support Iran during this challenging time. Also watch | Ebrahim Raisi news: Iran President Raisi, Foreign Minister Abdollahian killed in chopper crash Raisi, aged 63, had recently overseen increased tensions in the Middle East, including launching a significant drone and missile attack on Israel during the Israel-Hamas conflict. Under his leadership, Iran also enriched uranium to levels close to weapons-grade and supplied armed drones to Russia for its actions in Ukraine, while supporting militia groups across the region. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran Prez Ebrahim Raisi dead: Severely burnt bodies make identification difficult at scene of chopper crash

Reportedly, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his Foreign Minister died in a helicopter crash. The helicopter crashed in mountainous terrain and icy weather. The news came after search teams located the wreckage in East Azerbaijan province.

Ebrahim Raisi news: Over 70 rescue teams were deployed in search operation of chopper crash

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi death news updates: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences shortly after Iranian state media confirmed President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a tragic helicopter crash. Raisi was accompanied by Foreign Minister&nbsp;Hossein Amir-Abdollahian who too did not survive in what so far is being described as an 'accident'.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-drone-searching-for-raisis-plane-finds-heat-source-could-be-aircrafts-debris-723214">Iran prez Raisi dies in chopper crash, says state media</a>

"Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening 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," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also took to X and said that India stands with the people of Iran at the time of this tragedy.&nbsp;

"Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at time of this tragedy," Jaishankar wrote on X.

<img alt="External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar with deceased Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in January 2024 | AFP" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9d51c721-9c26-4c72-9c87-1df9ac43484c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RaisiJaishankar.png" />

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar with deceased Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in January 2024 | AFP

<h2>India-Iran ties during Ebrahim Raisi's years in power</h2>

After succeeding Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani in 2021, Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister Amir-Abdollahian were key to the conclusion of some of India's major&nbsp;investments on Iran's Chabahar Port, located just 200 km from China-funded Gwadar port in Pakistan, and key to India's connectivity ambitions with Russia through Central Asia. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Iran in January this year with <a href="https://www.mea.gov.in/outoging-visit-detail.htm?37513/Joint+Press+Statement+by+EAM+Dr+S+Jaishankar+with+Minister+of+Foreign+Affairs+of+Iran">focus</a> to conclude Chabahar Port Deal and developments on North-South Corridor.

<img alt="Iran is at the center of International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC)" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/INSTC.png" /> 
 
Just last week, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-capitals-new-delhi-seals-deal-to-operate-chabahar-port-for-a-decade-723100">signed</a> on the deal to operate Chabahar Port for the next 10 years in a major geoeconomic breakthrough for the two countries.&nbsp;

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At Tehran, Iran today, delighted to be part of the signing of the Long Term Bilateral Contract on Chabahar Port Operations in presence of HE Mehrdad Bazrpash, Minister of Roads &amp; Urban Development, Iran. 
 
India will develop and operate Iran's strategic Chabahar Port for 10… <a href="https://t.co/iXwekIk8ey">pic.twitter.com/iXwekIk8ey</a>
— Sarbananda Sonowal (Modi Ka Parivar) (@sarbanandsonwal) <a href="https://twitter.com/sarbanandsonwal/status/1789980437961703586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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New Delhi had been&nbsp;Tehran's key supporter for joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), a development that finally took place in&nbsp;September 2023 during South Africa BRICS summit.

Prior to that, in New Delhi's corridors of power, Tehran's support to the New Delhi-led Voice of the Global South summits&nbsp;was widely acknowledged.&nbsp;

Notably, since 1995 to present, the United States has issued ten executive orders to declare sanctions on various parts of Iran's economy citing, among other things, Tehran's pursuit&nbsp;to attain nuclear power. Between August 2021 till April 25, 2024, the US State Department&nbsp;has issued a total of 65 orders to declare sanctions on a number of Iran-linked entities — religious, economic, radical, et. al.&nbsp;— of several kinds.&nbsp;

Despite Washington's relentless pursuit against Iranian interests, it was India that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flip-flop-seen-over-us-stance-on-chabahar-port-721239">secured a waiver</a> from the US in 2018 for investments related to Chabahar Port through its steadfast diplomatic capital. Tehran recognises New Delhi's geo-economic significance and it's this exact recognition that has driven the two sides closer during Raisi's years in power.

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Iranian President <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EbrahimRaisi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EbrahimRaisi</a> dies in chopper crash; foreign minister Abdollahian also dead 
 
The president was flying in US-made Bell 212 helicopter 
 
WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidhant</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Anasmallick</a> join <a href="https://twitter.com/SaroyaHem?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Saroyahem</a> with more details <a href="https://t.co/TE6bK0KFb5">pic.twitter.com/TE6bK0KFb5</a>
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message of condolence&nbsp;in terms of&nbsp; Raisi's "contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship" indicates the strides the two countries have made in recent years.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi death news updates: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences shortly after Iranian state media confirmed President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a tragic helicopter crash.

Iran President Ebrahim Raisi death news updates: India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences shortly after Iranian state media confirmed President Ebrahim Raisi's death in a tragic helicopter crash. Raisi was accompanied by Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian who too did not survive in what so far is being described as an 'accident'. Also read | Iran prez Raisi dies in chopper crash, says state media "Deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic demise of Dr. Seyed Ebrahim Raisi, President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. His contribution to strengthening 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," Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar also took to X and said that India stands with the people of Iran at the time of this tragedy. "Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran’s President Dr Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amir-Abdollahian in the helicopter crash. Recall my many meetings with them, most recently in January 2024. Our condolences to their families. We stand with the people of Iran at time of this tragedy," Jaishankar wrote on X. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar with deceased Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in January 2024 | AFP India-Iran ties during Ebrahim Raisi's years in power After succeeding Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani in 2021, Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister Amir-Abdollahian were key to the conclusion of some of India's major investments on Iran's Chabahar Port, located just 200 km from China-funded Gwadar port in Pakistan, and key to India's connectivity ambitions with Russia through Central Asia. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar visited Iran in January this year with focus to conclude Chabahar Port Deal and developments on North-South Corridor. Just last week, Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal signed on the deal to operate Chabahar Port for the next 10 years in a major geoeconomic breakthrough for the two countries. At Tehran, Iran today, delighted to be part of the signing of the Long Term Bilateral Contract on Chabahar Port Operations in presence of HE Mehrdad Bazrpash, Minister of Roads & Urban Development, Iran. India will develop and operate Iran's strategic Chabahar Port for 10… pic.twitter.com/iXwekIk8ey — Sarbananda Sonowal (Modi Ka Parivar) (@sarbanandsonwal) May 13, 2024 × New Delhi had been Tehran's key supporter for joining the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), a development that finally took place in September 2023 during South Africa BRICS summit. Prior to that, in New Delhi's corridors of power, Tehran's support to the New Delhi-led Voice of the Global South summits was widely acknowledged. Notably, since 1995 to present, the United States has issued ten executive orders to declare sanctions on various parts of Iran's economy citing, among other things, Tehran's pursuit to attain nuclear power. Between August 2021 till April 25, 2024, the US State Department has issued a total of 65 orders to declare sanctions on a number of Iran-linked entities — religious, economic, radical, et. al. — of several kinds. Despite Washington's relentless pursuit against Iranian interests, it was India that secured a waiver from the US in 2018 for investments related to Chabahar Port through its steadfast diplomatic capital. Tehran recognises New Delhi's geo-economic significance and it's this exact recognition that has driven the two sides closer during Raisi's years in power. Iranian President #EbrahimRaisi dies in chopper crash; foreign minister Abdollahian also dead The president was flying in US-made Bell 212 helicopter WION's @sidhant and @Anasmallick join @Saroyahem with more details pic.twitter.com/TE6bK0KFb5 — WION (@WIONews) May 20, 2024 × Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message of condolence in terms of Raisi's "contribution to strengthening India-Iran bilateral relationship" indicates the strides the two countries have made in recent years.

India-Iran ties in Ebrahim Raisi years: Between BRICS, Chabahar and Central Asia connectivity

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. Iran's Raisi died in a helicopter crash while it flew through mountains in heavy fog. Watch this video for all details.

Raisi helicopter crash: Indian PM Modi reacts to Iran President Raisi's death

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters. In other news, the death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19). This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents. &nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

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The official said the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the foreign minister were "at risk following the helicopter crash". "We are still hopeful but information coming from the crash site is very concerning," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.&nbsp;

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Israeli airstrike targeting a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31. "The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists.

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'.&nbsp;He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time.

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Robert Fico's deputy said on Sunday (May 19) that the Slovak prime minister is no longer in immediate danger but is still in a serious condition. On Wednesday, Fico was injured in an assassination attempt when he was greeting the supporters.&nbsp;

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The speculation around Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni's IPL retirement is rife, especially after CSK failed to make it to the playoffs in the ongoing 2024 season. CSK were ousted after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 27 runs on Saturday (May 18).

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Lawyers across China are up in arms over what they say&nbsp;is 'blatant sabotage'&nbsp;of the legal system as they stage a rare protest on Chinese social media.&nbsp;This&nbsp;happened after advocates at the Tianjun county court in Haixi&nbsp;Mongol&nbsp;caught the presiding judge red-handed receiving real-time instructions on WeChat group, a Chinese messaging app.

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German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel.&nbsp;

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Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday&nbsp;(May 19) that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has started "Operation Jhaadu" (Operation Broom) to ensure the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) doesn't grow big and become a challenge to the saffron party.

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Selena Gomez returned to Cannes 2024 to attend the&nbsp;Emilia Perez&nbsp;photocall on Sunday (May 19). The 31-year-old singer and actress looked stunning in a custom Giambattista Valli haute couture. The diva smiled at the paps and flaunted her ensemble before entering the venue to attend the event.

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters.

A helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian crashed on Sunday (May 19) as it was crossing a mountainous terrain, an Iranian official told the news agency Reuters. In other news, the death toll after an Israeli airstrike targeted a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31, said Gaza's civil defence agency on Sunday (May 19). This comes a day after Israeli troops and tanks pushed into parts of congested northern Gaza killing and wounding dozens of Palestinians, reported Reuters citing medics and residents. Click on the headlines to read more. Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes, fog hampers rescue efforts The official said the lives of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and the foreign minister were "at risk following the helicopter crash". "We are still hopeful but information coming from the crash site is very concerning," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity. Death toll after Israeli strike on Gaza’s Nuseirat refugee camp rises to 31 Israeli airstrike targeting a house at Nuseirat refugee camp in the central part of the Palestinian enclave, rose to 31. "The civil defence crew were able to recover 31 martyrs and 20 wounded from a house belonging to the Hassan family, which was targeted by the Israeli occupation forces in the Nuseirat camp," Gaza civil defence agency spokesman Mahmud Bassal told journalists. Blue Origin’s NS rocket lifts off with six crew on board, including one Indian US billionaire Jeff Bezos-backed aerospace company Blue Origin's New Shepard (NS) rocket lifted off Sunday (May 19) with six crew members, including one Indian. The mission, named NS-25, departed from Launch Site One in West Texas. Gopi Thotakura, from the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, has thus become the first Indian space tourist. He is a commercial jet pilot and entrepreneur. PM Modi slams TMC, accuses it of ‘questioning character of Sandeshkhali women’ Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday (May 19) lashed out at Trinamool Congress (TMC) over the Sandeshkhali incident stating that the party questioned the “characters of the sisters of Sandeshkhali” just to save their 'Shahjahan'. He stated that when the TMC came to power, it claimed to safeguard Maa, Maati, and Manush but failed to do so in due course of time. Slovak PM Robert Fico’s life no longer in danger after assassination attempt Robert Fico's deputy said on Sunday (May 19) that the Slovak prime minister is no longer in immediate danger but is still in a serious condition. On Wednesday, Fico was injured in an assassination attempt when he was greeting the supporters. IPL 2024: Dhoni to retire? Here's what former CSK batter says The speculation around Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni's IPL retirement is rife, especially after CSK failed to make it to the playoffs in the ongoing 2024 season. CSK were ousted after losing to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by 27 runs on Saturday (May 18). Chinese lawyers up in arms after they caught judge receiving instructions on WeChat Lawyers across China are up in arms over what they say is 'blatant sabotage' of the legal system as they stage a rare protest on Chinese social media. This happened after advocates at the Tianjun county court in Haixi Mongol caught the presiding judge red-handed receiving real-time instructions on WeChat group, a Chinese messaging app. Israeli hostage Shani Louk’s body returns from Gaza; emotional parents react German-Israeli Shani Louk's father says that finally laying his daughter to rest will be a gift after her body was recovered from Gaza, months after she was killed in Hamas' Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel. Lok Sabha polls: BJP started ‘Operation Jhaadu’ so that AAP doesn’t grow, become a challenge, says Kejriwal Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Sunday (May 19) that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has started "Operation Jhaadu" (Operation Broom) to ensure the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) doesn't grow big and become a challenge to the saffron party. Selena Gomez paints Cannes red in a custom Giambattista Valli; see pics Selena Gomez returned to Cannes 2024 to attend the Emilia Perez photocall on Sunday (May 19). The 31-year-old singer and actress looked stunning in a custom Giambattista Valli haute couture. The diva smiled at the paps and flaunted her ensemble before entering the venue to attend the event.

Top 10 world news: Iranian President Raisi’s helicopter crashes; Slovak PM’s life out of danger; and more

Watch top headlines of the hour: - Comet fragment lights up sky - Raisi chopper makes 'rough landing' - Gaza: Israeli strike kills 31 - Netanyahu govt on the brink? - New Caledonia: France mobilises cops

Raisi chopper makes 'rough landing' | Comet fragment lights up sky

Iranian state television reported Sunday (May 19) that rescuers are trying to reach a helicopter involved in an "incident" while travelling with an entourage including President Ebrahim Raisi. Raisi was reportedly travelling in Iran's East Azerbaijan province but the state media didn't share details of what exactly happened to the helicopter. Watch in for more details!

Raisi's convoy helicopter accident: Iran's Interior Minister confirms incident

According to reports, the US and Iran held indirect discussions in Oman this month to avoid escalation in the Middle East. Watch to know more.

US-Iran talks on West Asia crisis: US, Iran hold a 'secret dialogue' amid raging Gaza war

Helicopter in convoy carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi suffers mishap

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report.

The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts.

President Joe Biden had sent his Middle East adviser Brett McGurk and acting US envoy to Iran Abram Paley for the first round of discussions between the two countries in January, as per Axios reports.

The talks involved discussions around Iran's unprecedented assault against Israel on April 13.

According to the reports, McGurk and Paley on Tuesday (May 14) met with the Omani mediators for the indirect talks. However, it is not yet clear as to who represented the Iranian side.

The US expressed concerns over Iran's nuclear program and the potential consequences of acts carried out by Iran and its proxies in the region.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this week, State Department's deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel had said that the Biden administration will communicate with Iran in its own ways whenever necessary.

"The Biden administration continues to assess that Iran is not currently undertaking the key activities that would be necessary to produce a testable nuclear device," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-says-it-informed-neighbours-about-attack-on-israel-72-hours-in-advance-711239">Also read: Iran says it informed neighbours about attack on Israel 72 hours in advance</a>

<h2>Iran issues nuclear bomb threat to Israel amid escalating tensions</h2>

Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official said that Tehran would change its nuclear doctrine if Israel continues to threaten its existence amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia stemming from the war in Gaza.&nbsp;

The assertion has triggered newfound fears of nuclear warfare in the region.

Iran's public position is that it has no plans to obtain nuclear weapons. But intelligence agencies across the world have long concluded that Tehran intends to obtain a nuclear bomb.&nbsp;

Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a sharp threat to Israel earlier this week by indicating that Tehran might change its nuclear doctrine sooner than expected.&nbsp;

Kharrazi said to Iran's Student News Network, "We have no decision to build a nuclear bomb but should Iran's existence be threatened, there will be no choice but to change our military doctrine."

"Recently, the military officials also announced that if Israel wants to attack nuclear facilities, it is possible and imaginable to revise Iran’s nuclear doctrine and policies and divert from the previous declaration considerations," he added.

Earlier in 2022, Kharrazi had claimed that Iran was technically capable of making a nuclear bomb but had not yet decided whether to build one.&nbsp;

Supreme Leader Khamenei banned the development of nuclear weapons in a fatwa in the early 2000s.

In his latest comment on the matter, Kharrazi said, "In the case of an attack on our nuclear facilities by the Zionist regime, our deterrence will change."

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report. The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts.

The United States and Iran held indirect talks this week in Oman in an attempt to prevent the escalation of regional attacks, as per a report. The discussion took place between two senior US officials and their Iranian counterparts. President Joe Biden had sent his Middle East adviser Brett McGurk and acting US envoy to Iran Abram Paley for the first round of discussions between the two countries in January, as per Axios reports. The talks involved discussions around Iran's unprecedented assault against Israel on April 13. According to the reports, McGurk and Paley on Tuesday (May 14) met with the Omani mediators for the indirect talks. However, it is not yet clear as to who represented the Iranian side. The US expressed concerns over Iran's nuclear program and the potential consequences of acts carried out by Iran and its proxies in the region. Earlier this week, State Department's deputy spokesperson Vedant Patel had said that the Biden administration will communicate with Iran in its own ways whenever necessary. "The Biden administration continues to assess that Iran is not currently undertaking the key activities that would be necessary to produce a testable nuclear device," he said. Also read: Iran says it informed neighbours about attack on Israel 72 hours in advance Iran issues nuclear bomb threat to Israel amid escalating tensions Meanwhile, a senior Iranian official said that Tehran would change its nuclear doctrine if Israel continues to threaten its existence amid the ongoing turmoil in West Asia stemming from the war in Gaza. The assertion has triggered newfound fears of nuclear warfare in the region. Iran's public position is that it has no plans to obtain nuclear weapons. But intelligence agencies across the world have long concluded that Tehran intends to obtain a nuclear bomb. Kamal Kharrazi, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, issued a sharp threat to Israel earlier this week by indicating that Tehran might change its nuclear doctrine sooner than expected. Kharrazi said to Iran's Student News Network, "We have no decision to build a nuclear bomb but should Iran's existence be threatened, there will be no choice but to change our military doctrine." "Recently, the military officials also announced that if Israel wants to attack nuclear facilities, it is possible and imaginable to revise Iran’s nuclear doctrine and policies and divert from the previous declaration considerations," he added. Earlier in 2022, Kharrazi had claimed that Iran was technically capable of making a nuclear bomb but had not yet decided whether to build one. Supreme Leader Khamenei banned the development of nuclear weapons in a fatwa in the early 2000s. In his latest comment on the matter, Kharrazi said, "In the case of an attack on our nuclear facilities by the Zionist regime, our deterrence will change." (With inputs from agencies)

US holds indirect talks with Iran to prevent escalation of regional attacks: Report

Jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi faces a new trial after she accused security forces of sexually assaulting female prisoners, her family said on Saturday (May 18), as per news agency AFP.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Full-scale war against women’</h2>

The trial, which will begin on Sunday (May 19), is said to be related to an audio post that Mohammadi had sent from the notorious Evin prison where she is currently being held. The post had reportedly condemned a “full-scale war against women” by the Iranian regime.

The message in question was shared by her supporters, back in April. The charges of the latest case are related to making “propaganda against the regime,” reported AFP.&nbsp;

The Iranian judicial authorities are yet to comment on the case.&nbsp;

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Mohammadi, 52, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 has already served over 12 years in prison due to multiple convictions.&nbsp;

She has been detained by the Iranian regime on 13 occasions, received five convictions, and faced a cumulative sentence of 31 years in prison, along with 154 lashings.

Mohammadi’s family quoted her as saying that the trial should be held in public so “witnesses and survivors can testify to the sexual assaults perpetrated by the Islamic republic regime against women.”&nbsp;

In a post on her website, Mohammadi said it was the fourth time in as many years she had been “dragged to the unjust and farcical courts’ table” for her “protest and disclosure of the religious regime’s men’s sexual assault against women”.&nbsp;

<h2>What was the message about?</h2>

In April, the Nobel laureate took to Instagram and urged Iranian women to share their stories of arrest and sexual assault at the hands of the Iranian authorities.

She also spoke about the case of journalist and student Dina Ghalibaf who, according to a report by AFP that cited&nbsp;rights groups, was arrested after she accused Iranian security forces of handcuffing and sexually assaulting her during a previous arrest at a metro station.

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Ghalibaf has since been released. In the post on her website, Mohammadi also said she was being tried for speaking against “the bruising of the body and narrating the assault on” Ghalaibaf, in an audio message.

Mohammadi, who has been incarcerated since November 2021, has not seen her Paris-based husband and twin children for several years. The trial that opens on Sunday will be the fourth such case against her.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi faces a new trial after she accused security forces of sexually assaulting female prisoners, her family said on Saturday (May 18), as per news agency AFP.

Jailed Iranian Nobel Peace Prize winner Narges Mohammadi faces a new trial after she accused security forces of sexually assaulting female prisoners, her family said on Saturday (May 18), as per news agency AFP. ‘Full-scale war against women’ The trial, which will begin on Sunday (May 19), is said to be related to an audio post that Mohammadi had sent from the notorious Evin prison where she is currently being held. The post had reportedly condemned a “full-scale war against women” by the Iranian regime. The message in question was shared by her supporters, back in April. The charges of the latest case are related to making “propaganda against the regime,” reported AFP. The Iranian judicial authorities are yet to comment on the case. Also Read | US girl aged 12 dies by suicide after she was bullied at school Mohammadi, 52, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2023 has already served over 12 years in prison due to multiple convictions. She has been detained by the Iranian regime on 13 occasions, received five convictions, and faced a cumulative sentence of 31 years in prison, along with 154 lashings. Mohammadi’s family quoted her as saying that the trial should be held in public so “witnesses and survivors can testify to the sexual assaults perpetrated by the Islamic republic regime against women.” In a post on her website, Mohammadi said it was the fourth time in as many years she had been “dragged to the unjust and farcical courts’ table” for her “protest and disclosure of the religious regime’s men’s sexual assault against women”. What was the message about? In April, the Nobel laureate took to Instagram and urged Iranian women to share their stories of arrest and sexual assault at the hands of the Iranian authorities. She also spoke about the case of journalist and student Dina Ghalibaf who, according to a report by AFP that cited rights groups, was arrested after she accused Iranian security forces of handcuffing and sexually assaulting her during a previous arrest at a metro station. Also Read | Mount Ibu: Eruption of volcano on Indonesian island prompts evacuation of seven villages Ghalibaf has since been released. In the post on her website, Mohammadi also said she was being tried for speaking against “the bruising of the body and narrating the assault on” Ghalaibaf, in an audio message. Mohammadi, who has been incarcerated since November 2021, has not seen her Paris-based husband and twin children for several years. The trial that opens on Sunday will be the fourth such case against her. (With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Iranian Nobel laureate Narges Mohammadi faces new trial, says her family

More than 260 people, including three European citizens, were arrested as Iranian security forces stopped a “satanist” gathering west of the capital Tehran, reported the semi-official news agency Tasnim, on Friday (May 17).&nbsp;

<h2>About the arrests</h2>

A report by the state-run IRNA news agency said that the suspects were arrested on Thursday (May 16) night in Shahryar County, for “spreading the culture of satanism and nudity.” However, did not elaborate on what the gathering was exactly about.&nbsp;

It was also not clear how more than 260 people were arrested in one night and if they were at one location or not. Notably, gatherings of unrelated men and women are illegal in Iran and considered a sin under Islamic law.

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According to the Iranian media reports, 146 men, 115 women, and three European citizens were arrested. The nationalities of the three European citizens were not immediately known.

Those arrested were found “in an undesirable and obscene state with emblems, signs and symbols of satanism on their clothes, head, face and hair,” said the local news agencies citing a police statement.

“Satanist network broken up in Tehran, arrests of three European nationals,” reported the semi-official news agency Tasnim.&nbsp;

It also published photos alongside its report showing masks, what appeared to be model skulls and T-shirts with skulls on, reported Reuters.

According to a report by Iran’s Fars news agency, Iranian law enforcement officials also seized alcohol, psychoactive substances and 73 vehicles during the overnight raid on a “satanist network”.&nbsp;

A 25-second video posted by the agency showed a scene from a gathering resembling a techno event, reported DW.&nbsp;

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While these symbols are common in tattoos, piercings, and earrings, they are prohibited in Iran and so is drinking alcohol. &nbsp;

<h2>Raids on ‘satanism’</h2>

The raids by Iranian security forces of so-called “satanist” gatherings are not uncommon in the deeply conservative Islamic Republic which often targets parties or concerts with alcohol consumption.&nbsp;

In July 2009, police arrested three people in the northwestern province of Ardebil over “satan worship,” according to news agency AFP.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

More than 260 people, including three European citizens, were arrested as Iranian security forces stopped a “satanist” gathering west of the capital Tehran, reported the semi-official news agency Tasnim, on Friday (May 17).

More than 260 people, including three European citizens, were arrested as Iranian security forces stopped a “satanist” gathering west of the capital Tehran, reported the semi-official news agency Tasnim, on Friday (May 17). About the arrests A report by the state-run IRNA news agency said that the suspects were arrested on Thursday (May 16) night in Shahryar County, for “spreading the culture of satanism and nudity.” However, did not elaborate on what the gathering was exactly about. It was also not clear how more than 260 people were arrested in one night and if they were at one location or not. Notably, gatherings of unrelated men and women are illegal in Iran and considered a sin under Islamic law. Also Read | Japan changes decades-old law to allow joint custody to divorced couples According to the Iranian media reports, 146 men, 115 women, and three European citizens were arrested. The nationalities of the three European citizens were not immediately known. Those arrested were found “in an undesirable and obscene state with emblems, signs and symbols of satanism on their clothes, head, face and hair,” said the local news agencies citing a police statement. “Satanist network broken up in Tehran, arrests of three European nationals,” reported the semi-official news agency Tasnim. It also published photos alongside its report showing masks, what appeared to be model skulls and T-shirts with skulls on, reported Reuters. According to a report by Iran’s Fars news agency, Iranian law enforcement officials also seized alcohol, psychoactive substances and 73 vehicles during the overnight raid on a “satanist network”. A 25-second video posted by the agency showed a scene from a gathering resembling a techno event, reported DW. Also Read | Amid clashes in parliament, Taiwanese lawmaker snatches bill, runs outside to stop its passage While these symbols are common in tattoos, piercings, and earrings, they are prohibited in Iran and so is drinking alcohol. Raids on ‘satanism’ The raids by Iranian security forces of so-called “satanist” gatherings are not uncommon in the deeply conservative Islamic Republic which often targets parties or concerts with alcohol consumption. In July 2009, police arrested three people in the northwestern province of Ardebil over “satan worship,” according to news agency AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran: More than 260 people, including three European citizens arrested at ‘satanist’ gathering

EAM Jaishankar said that India will work to communicate the benefits of a strategic port project in Iran. This after the United States said Indian firms working on the project risked sanctions. Watch this video for all details.

'Chabahar has a larger relevance': Jaishankar reacts to US threat of sanctions

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges.

In an Instagram post, Rasoulof criticised the Iranian government and called it a tyrannical and oppressive regime. He also shared a video which showed him crossing the mountainous border of the country.

“If geographical Iran suffers beneath the boots of your religious tyranny, cultural Iran is alive in the common minds of millions of Iranians who were forced to leave Iran due to your brutality and no power can impose its will on it. From today, I am a resident of cultural Iran,” Rasoulof said.

In another statement on May 12, Rasoulof stated that he would be escaping from Iran after his lawyers informed him about his prison sentence getting implemented on short notice.

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“I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile,” the filmmaker said in that statement, which was released by a spokesperson.

<h2>Why was Rasoulof given a prison sentence?</h2>

The lawyers of Rasoulof last week, informed The Associated Press that the director was given&nbsp;an&nbsp;eight-year prison sentence, and orders had been given for the confiscation of his property by the Islamic Republic, as well as for&nbsp;flogging.

Rasoulof's attorney Babak Paknia said that the filmmaker was given a sentence for signing statements and making films.

A letter was co-signed by Rasoulof and other artists appealing to authorities to put down their weapons as protests continued over a building's collapse in 2022 which killed at least 29 people in the&nbsp;southwestern city of Abadan.

Watch:&nbsp;India, Iran set to ink 10-year Chabahar port deal

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-iran-set-to-ink-10-year-chabahar-port-deal-720972/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

His latest film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is set for a release and will premiere in Cannes on May 24.

"Knowing that the news of my new film would be revealed very soon, I knew that without a doubt, a new sentence would be added to these eight years," Rasoulof said.

"I didn’t have much time to make a decision. I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile. The Islamic Republic confiscated my passport in September 2017. Therefore, I had to leave Iran secretly," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges.

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof announced that he had fled from his country to Europe after he was given a prison sentence by a court on national security charges. In an Instagram post, Rasoulof criticised the Iranian government and called it a tyrannical and oppressive regime. He also shared a video which showed him crossing the mountainous border of the country. “If geographical Iran suffers beneath the boots of your religious tyranny, cultural Iran is alive in the common minds of millions of Iranians who were forced to leave Iran due to your brutality and no power can impose its will on it. From today, I am a resident of cultural Iran,” Rasoulof said. In another statement on May 12, Rasoulof stated that he would be escaping from Iran after his lawyers informed him about his prison sentence getting implemented on short notice. Also Read: 'Risk of sanctions,' US cries foul as India, Iran ink 10-year agreement over Chabahar port “I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile,” the filmmaker said in that statement, which was released by a spokesperson. Why was Rasoulof given a prison sentence? The lawyers of Rasoulof last week, informed The Associated Press that the director was given an eight-year prison sentence, and orders had been given for the confiscation of his property by the Islamic Republic, as well as for flogging. Rasoulof's attorney Babak Paknia said that the filmmaker was given a sentence for signing statements and making films. A letter was co-signed by Rasoulof and other artists appealing to authorities to put down their weapons as protests continued over a building's collapse in 2022 which killed at least 29 people in the southwestern city of Abadan. Watch: India, Iran set to ink 10-year Chabahar port deal His latest film "The Seed of the Sacred Fig" is set for a release and will premiere in Cannes on May 24. "Knowing that the news of my new film would be revealed very soon, I knew that without a doubt, a new sentence would be added to these eight years," Rasoulof said. "I didn’t have much time to make a decision. I had to choose between prison and leaving Iran. With a heavy heart, I chose exile. The Islamic Republic confiscated my passport in September 2017. Therefore, I had to leave Iran secretly," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran's acclaimed filmmaker Mohammad Rasoulof flees country to avoid prison and flogging sentence

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