India stands in solidarity with Iran during this time of sorrow: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow over the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who died in a helicopter crash on Sunday. Modi conveyed that India stands in solidarity with Iran during this "time of sorrow."

"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," he said in a post on X.

When the Iranian leader's helicopter initially went missing, PM Modi expressed "deep concern," stating he was praying for the safety of President Raisi and his entourage.

S. Jaishankar also extended his condolences

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar also extended his condolences, reflecting on his past meetings with the late Iranian leaders. "Deeply shocked to hear of the passing away of Iran's President Dr. Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister H. Amirabdollahian 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 this time of tragedy," Jaishankar posted on X.

The death of President Raisi comes amid heightened regional tensions, especially given the ongoing Gaza conflict and Iran's recent escalations with Israel.

Since taking office in 2021, President Raisi had reaffirmed Iran's steadfast support for Palestine, a commitment he reiterated during a recent dam inauguration speech.

India signed a 10-year contract to operate Iranian port of Chabahar

Notably, on May 13, India signed a significant 10-year contract to operate the strategic Iranian port of Chabahar, a move aimed at boosting trade with Central Asia.

The helicopter, part of a convoy carrying President Raisi and other high-ranking officials, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, lost contact approximately 30 minutes after takeoff. The aircraft reportedly encountered bad weather while traversing a mountainous region in Iran's East Azerbaijan province.