TEHRAN – With presidential elections looming, Iran's top commander of the army, Maj. Gen. Abdolrahim Mousavi, expressed the country's unwavering commitment to the principles of the Islamic Revolution despite adversity.
Mousavi made the remarks on Sunday during a speech at the funeral honoring late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his late aides.
Reflecting on the death of Raisi and his companions, he said: “From the moment the strong Iranian people received the news, they have expressed in various ways their deep emotions and sincere feelings in memory of these beloved figures.”
Mousavi underscored the world's admiration for Iran's resilience, saying, “Despite the relentless media intrigues aimed at weakening our country, the gathering of millions of Muslims for the funerals and commemorations of our martyrs signifies Iran's unwavering strength and unity, which keeps us moving forward with resilience.”
Mousavi asserted that Iran has weathered similar hardships in the past, and declared that “under the guidance of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, the resilient Iranian people will overcome this difficult time and once again illuminate the world with the radiance of the Islamic Revolution and demonstrate the greatness of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”
He added: “Throughout history, the Iranian people have triumphed over adversity. As the presidential elections approach, our country will once again demonstrate its unwavering resolve against our enemies, buoyed by the perseverance and sacrifice of our martyrs and their families.”
The helicopter carrying President Raisi and his entourage crashed on Sunday afternoon while en route to Tabriz, the capital of east Azerbaijan, from near the border with the Republic of Azerbaijan, where the Iranian president has begun a major dam construction project.
Rescue teams found the helicopter's wreckage early Monday after hours of exhaustive search involving more than 70 teams.
The crash also killed Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdullahian, two senior provincial government officials, crew members and bodyguards.
Following the president's death, Vice President Mohamed Mokbel was appointed to take over in the interim.
Following the death of Iran's president, Article 131 of the country's constitution mandates that presidential elections be held swiftly within 50 days. A council made up of representatives of the judiciary, legislature, and first vice president is tasked with overseeing the transition. Following the council's deliberations and subsequent approval by the Guardian Council, plans are in motion to hold early nationwide presidential elections, scheduled for June 28, 2024.
