Iran starts the burial process for former president, foreign minister, and other victims of helicopter crash | Global News

Iran began the somber process of laying to rest its late president, Ebrahim Raisi, at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, the holiest site for Shiite Muslims in the Islamic Republic. Raisi, a protégé of Iran’s supreme leader, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash earlier this week, along with the country’s foreign minister and six others.

The burial at the shrine marked the culmination of days of processionals across Iran, aimed at honoring Raisi and bolstering the country’s theocracy in the wake of the tragic accident. However, the services did not draw the same massive crowds as those seen for previous figures like Revolutionary Guard Gen. Qassem Soleimani, indicating potential public sentiment towards Raisi’s presidency.

Despite the government’s efforts to portray Raisi in a positive light, many have criticized his harsh crackdown on dissent and the country’s struggling economy. The mass execution of dissidents during the Iran-Iraq war, in which Raisi was involved, has also been a point of contention.

Prosecutors have warned against any public displays of celebration following Raisi’s death, with a heavy security presence seen in Tehran. The decision to bury Raisi at the Imam Reza Shrine, a major honor, underscores his significance in Iranian politics.

As the country navigates a politically sensitive moment, with the upcoming presidential election and uncertainty surrounding potential successors to the supreme leader, the loss of Raisi and other prominent figures has left a void in Iran’s leadership. The nation mourns the passing of these individuals and reflects on their contributions to the country’s history and future.