Thousands mourn Iran’s Raisi in Tabriz procession following helicopter crash

Iranians have gathered in Tabriz, the capital of the East Azerbaijan province, to mourn at a farewell procession for President Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on Sunday. The crash also claimed the lives of Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and six others, including the helicopter's crew members.

On Tuesday, tens of thousands of mourners, waving Iranian flags and portraits of the late president, set out from a central square in the northwestern city where Raisi was headed when his helicopter crashed. Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar, reporting from Tehran, noted that funeral ceremonies for Iranian state dignitaries often occur over an extended period and in several locations.

Following the procession in Tabriz, the bodies of Raisi, 63, and Amirabdollahian, 60, will be transferred to Tehran for another ceremony. Before that, the bodies are expected to be taken to Qom, a city of great religious significance in central Iran, for a ceremony later on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, a larger ceremony is planned in Tehran, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei expected to lead the prayers. Foreign dignitaries are also anticipated to attend this event. Raisi’s body will then be transported to Mashhad, Iran's second-largest city in the northeast, where he was born and raised. Organizers in Mashhad are planning a "glorious" burial for Raisi in the holy city on Thursday.

The continuing investigation into the cause of the crash has not yet suggested any act of sabotage. Instead, the focus remains on the extreme weather conditions at the time, including a thick layer of fog, combined with challenging terrain and possible technical issues.

Questions have arisen regarding the suitability of the two-blade Bell 212 helicopter, which is believed to have been decades old, for such a journey. Foreign sanctions on Iran, dating back to the 1979 revolution and reinforced due to its nuclear program and its backing of the so-called "axis of resistance," have made it difficult for the country to obtain new aircraft or aircraft parts.

There is also scrutiny over why the aircraft was allowed to take off under adverse weather conditions. The crash site’s extreme weather, challenging terrain, and possible technical issues are key focal points of the ongoing investigation.

This tragedy has cast a shadow over Iran, bringing the nation together in grief. Raisi, who had a significant influence on the political landscape of Iran, is being remembered not just for his political contributions but also for his dedication to the country's development. As the nation mourns, questions about the safety of its aviation fleet and the impact of longstanding sanctions are brought to the forefront, highlighting broader issues that have long plagued Iran.

The ceremonies over the next few days are expected to be highly emotional and reflective, serving as a tribute to Raisi and the others who lost their lives. The presence of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials underscores the gravity of the loss. The scheduled events in multiple cities reflect the widespread respect and admiration that Raisi commanded across the nation.

As the nation grieves, there is also a sense of unity and resilience. The tragic event has become a moment of national solidarity, drawing Iranians together in shared sorrow and remembrance. The extended mourning period and the planned ceremonies are not only a tribute to the deceased but also a reminder of the ongoing challenges and the enduring spirit of the Iranian people.

The loss of President Raisi has also sparked discussions on the future of Iran's political landscape. His passing leaves a significant void, and there are speculations about who will step into his role and how this will impact the country’s direction. Raisi was known for his staunch positions and efforts to navigate the country through economic hardships exacerbated by international sanctions.

The international community is watching closely, with many foreign dignitaries expected to attend the funeral ceremonies. Their presence signifies the global impact of Raisi's leadership and the importance of Iran on the world stage. It also underscores the broader geopolitical dynamics at play, as nations express condolences and reflect on their relations with Iran.

As the ceremonies unfold, the nation’s media outlets are providing extensive coverage, capturing the outpouring of grief and the solemnity of the events. This is not just a time of mourning but also of reflection on Raisi’s legacy and the path forward for Iran.

In the streets, people are sharing stories of Raisi’s influence on their lives, his policies, and his vision for Iran. The public's response highlights the profound connection he had with many Iranians. This national period of mourning is more than just a tribute to a fallen leader; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of a nation united in the face of adversity, determined to honor the past while looking forward to the future.

In the aftermath of the crash, there are calls for a thorough review of the nation’s aviation safety standards and infrastructure. The tragedy has amplified the voices of those advocating for modernization and improvements in safety protocols, hoping to prevent such incidents in the future.

As the country continues to mourn, the lessons from this tragic event are likely to shape Iran's policies and priorities moving forward. The legacy of President Ebrahim Raisi will be remembered not just in the pages of history but in the collective memory of a nation that values resilience, honor, and the relentless pursuit of justice and progress.

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