TEHRAN – The acting Foreign Minister of Iran says the nation showcased its unity and strength in the aftermath of the tragic helicopter crash on May 19 that claimed the lives of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and six other officials.

“Our nation, in all its grandeur, demonstrated the power, authority, and strength of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the world while bidding farewell to the martyred officials, firmly standing behind the Leader of Islamic Revolution," Ali Baqeri Kani stated during a ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs honoring the victims of the helicopter crash.

He continued, "Today, despite mourning this great loss, we stand with dignity and pride as the inheritors of the legacy of these beloved individuals."

The helicopter carrying Raisi and his entourage crashed in a mountainous area in the northwestern Iranian province of East Azerbaijan, resulting in the death of all those on board.

Rescuers found the wreckage of the helicopter after hours of extensive search which involved more than 70 teams.

The helicopter carrying Raisi and his entourage was on its way to Tabriz, the capital of East Azerbaijan, from a location on the border with the Republic of Azerbaijan where the Iranian president had opened a major dam project.

First Vice President Mokhber was appointed as the acting president until a snap presidential election is held on June 28.

IRGC commander honors late FM Amir Abdollahian’s legacy 

Major General Hossein Salami, Commander of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC), paid tribute to the late Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian during the solemn ceremony at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. 

General Salami began by highlighting Amir Abdollahian's moral and political bravery.

He emphasized that Amir Abdollahian and his colleagues at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs left an indelible mark on Iran's foreign policy. "He excelled in both Resistance diplomacy and conventional diplomacy," Salami noted.

Reflecting on Amir Abdollahian's tenure, Salami addressed the initial concerns surrounding his leadership. 

"When Amir Abdollahian and his team, committed to Islamic values and revolutionary principles, took office, there was a perception that Iran would face political isolation. Our adversaries aimed to sever Iran's regional influence. However, thanks to the wise policies of the Leader of Islamic Revolution and the strong political resolve of our officials, these strategies failed, leading to significant positive developments in our foreign policy," he said.

Salami pointed out that political courage often surpasses military bravery. "As a military man, I can attest that political courage, which involves making significant decisions with vast responsibilities, is even more significant. The late Amir Abdollahian demonstrated both political and moral courage, leaving behind a distinguished legacy," he stated.

He also discussed the Foreign Ministry's efforts in de-escalation, maintaining just relations with neighbors, and striving for membership in regional and international organizations during late Amir Abdollahian's leadership. 

"He expanded foreign policy beyond state relations, promoting Resistance diplomacy and actively supporting resistance leaders," Salami said.

Salami praised Amir Abdollahian’s ability to transform defense actions into political discourse. "He balanced Resistance diplomacy with conventional diplomacy, never allowing formalities to hinder his revolutionary spirit. His honesty earned respect even from adversaries," he added.

Recalling the events of 2022, Salami noted that enemies sought to isolate Iran and increase pressure. "The late Amir Abdollahian and the Foreign Ministry worked tirelessly to repair the country's image and counter these pressures. Their efforts rendered sanctions ineffective, preventing Iran from being seen as a globally sanctioned state," he explained.

Salami also remembered their cooperation during the True Promise Operation. "This major operation required significant political courage. Amir Abdollahian was very active, calmly responding to threats and maintaining clarity, which brought legitimacy to our foreign policy," he stated.

Salami also asserted, "Today, Iran stands in its strongest position in decades, with a global influence that cannot be ignored in any major political or security equation."

In a symbolic act of recognition, Salami presented a commendation to acting Foreign Minister Ali Baqeri Kani, fulfilling a long-overdue acknowledgment of Amir Abdollahian's contributions. 

"When the True Promise Operation was completed, I had prepared a commendation for Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian and his colleagues, but due to various engagements, the presentation was delayed. Today, I fulfill this act of appreciation," he concluded.

Also, during the funeral ceremony, a book titled “Throughout the holy Front,” which was penned by the late Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian, was launched.