Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has died in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border on May 19, 2024. The crash also resulted in the death of Iran's Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian. The helicopter was en route to the northwestern region of Varzaqan when the accident occurred, and the bodies of all aboard have been recovered
Raisi, who had been president since 2021, was a controversial figure known for his hardline policies and significant role in Iran's judicial system, where he gained the nickname "Butcher of Tehran" due to his involvement in the 1988 mass executions of political prisoners. His death is expected to have significant implications for Iran's political landscape and succession plans for the Supreme LeaderThe Times of Israel