TEHRAN – The Iranian minister of the Interior says the nation stands resolute in continuing the legacy of the martyred President Ebrahim Raisi.

Speaking with the Al Mayadeen network at the funeral procession of the late Iranian president and his companions in Tabriz on Tuesday, Ahmad Vahidi echoed this sentiment. 

He emphasized Iran's firm commitment to upholding the path of president Raisi.

Furthermore, he underscored the significance of the funeral procession, stating that while the Iranian people mourn the loss of their president, the event symbolizes yet another historic chapter in their collective narrative.

Addressing concerns about the absence of the late president, the minister of the interior reassured that it does not disrupt the administration of the country's affairs. He affirmed that the Iranian nation remains steadfast in its dedication to preserving the legacy of the martyred officials.

Tabriz, the first stop for the funeral procession, witnessed a massive turnout as Iranians bid farewell to the late President Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and their companions.

A helicopter carrying  the Iranian president crashed in Iran’s province of East Azerbaijan on May 19. 

Following more than 15 hours of intensive search and rescue efforts, the bodies of the officials and cabin crew were discovered by search teams.

Head of the Red Crescent Society of the Islamic Republic of Iran Pir Hossein Kolivand declared all passengers and crew of Raisi's helicopter dead on Monday. 

Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber has been appointed to assume interim duties after the death of the president.

Mokhber will work with the heads of Iran's legislature and judiciary to prepare for a presidential election within 50 days - a period of time set out in Iran's constitution for replacing a president who dies in office.

Iran's cabinet has also appointed deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani as acting foreign minister.