Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi met a tragic end in a helicopter crash, confirmed by Iranian state TV on Monday.
The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported that the government cabinet, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, convened an urgent meeting to address the situation following this devastating event.
In accordance with Article 131 of Iran's constitution, if a president passes away while in office, the duty of assuming presidential responsibilities falls upon the first vice president.
Mohammad Mokhber's Appointment:
Mohammad Mokhber, the Vice President, has been designated as the interim President with the endorsement of Supreme Leader Imam Khamenei. Mokhber is expected to take on this interim role within the next sixty days.
A council comprising the first vice president, the parliamentary speaker, and the head of the judiciary is tasked with organizing a presidential election within a maximum timeframe of 50 days.
Mohammad Mokhber Profile and Background:
Mohammad Mokhber, aged 68, currently serves as Iran's first vice president and is anticipated to step into the interim presidency following Ebrahim Raisi's demise. Mokhber, akin to Raisi, is viewed as being in close alignment with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, whose authority extends over all state matters.
Born on September 1, 1955, Mokhber assumed the role of first vice president in 2021 upon Raisi's ascension to the presidency. He previously led Setad, an investment fund affiliated with the supreme leader. Setad, established by Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, focused on managing and selling properties reportedly abandoned after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with proceeds primarily allocated to charitable endeavors.
Mokhber's tenure witnessed engagement in international affairs, including negotiations with Moscow regarding the supply of surface-to-surface missiles and drones to Russia's military. Despite previous sanctions by the European Union for alleged involvement in nuclear or ballistic missile activities, Mokhber was subsequently removed from the sanctions list in 2012.
The passing of President Raisi marks a significant moment in Iranian politics, triggering a succession process outlined by the constitution. Mohammad Mokhber's appointment as interim president underscores the stability of the leadership transition, maintaining continuity amidst the nation's grief, and ensuring the orderly conduct of presidential affairs.
The untimely demise of President Raisi has garnered attention and condolences from the international community, reflecting the global significance of Iran's political landscape. Nations around the world have expressed sympathy and solidarity with Iran during this period of mourning.
Additionally, questions arise regarding the implications of Raisi's passing on Iran's domestic and foreign policies, particularly in light of ongoing regional tensions and nuclear negotiations.
Both domestic and international observers will undoubtedly closely monitor Mohammad Mokhber's interim presidency as Iran navigates through this transition period and addresses the challenges ahead. As the nation mourns the loss of its leader, the focus now shifts towards ensuring stability and continuity in governance while upholding Iran's strategic interests on the global stage.
