Iran To Hold Presidential Election On June 28

Iran has decided to conduct the election on June 28 to determine the new president of the country. Iran made this crucial decision following the death of President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reported that registration would be held from May 30 to June 3, and candidates would have to conduct electoral campaigns from June 12 to 27. 

The helicopter carrying Ebrahim Raisi crashed in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province in the mountainous northwest. Killed alongside the Iranian President were Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian and seven others, including the pilot, bodyguards, and political and religious officials. The incident happened when Ebrahim Raisi was on the return trip after inaugurating a dam project.

The Associated Press, citing Iran's state television, reported that all government offices and private businesses in Iran will be closed on Wednesday to coincide with funerals for crash victims. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has announced five days of mourning in memory of President Raisi. Multiple reports suggest that Ebrahim Raisi will be buried in Mashhad, the city where he was born. Meanwhile, the Iranian Supreme Leader has appointed First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber as acting president, and Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri Kani was named as acting foreign minister.