Details as Iranian President, Others Die in Air Crash,Vice President set to Assume Presidency

Iran’s first vice president, Mohammad Mokhber, is set to assume the presidency following the tragic death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash.

This unexpected event, which also claimed the life of Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and other officials, comes as the country prepares for early elections.

According to the Iranian constitution, the first vice president takes over the presidential role in cases of the president’s death, dismissal, resignation, or prolonged illness. Mokhber’s interim appointment, however, requires the approval of Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority over state matters.

Iran is expected to hold presidential elections to select a permanent successor within 50 days, adhering to constitutional mandates. During this period, a council comprising the parliament speaker, the head of the judiciary, and the vice president will oversee the organization of the national vote.

Mohammad Mokhber, 68, has been serving as the vice president since August 2021, when Raisi first took office. Born in Dezful, Khuzestan, Mokhber has held various official positions, most notably chairing the Execution of Imam Khomeini’s Order since 2007. This organization, responsible for managing properties seized after the 1979 Islamic revolution, has evolved into a major state economic entity with interests in multiple sectors.

Iran has held presidential elections every four years since its first vote in 1980, with the constitution limiting presidents to two terms. The president, aided by several vice presidents, is responsible for appointing and directing the cabinet in the absence of a prime minister.