The Secretary General of World Forum for Proximity of Islamic Schools of Thought has issued a message in the wake of the helicopter crash incident that killed Iranian President Ebrahim Raieisi hailing him for his indefatigable and resolute character.

Dr Hamid Shahriari, in his message, issued on Monday said sincerity, modesty and determination were among the outstanding features of the Iranian president, reported Taqrib News Agency (TNA).
 
The cleric hailed the Iranian President as a determined, enthusiastic and indefatigable character who received the reward, martyrdom, for his sincere efforts on the eve of the birth anniversary of Imam Reza (AS), eighth Shia Imam and grandson of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

Hujjat-ul-Islam Hamid Shahriari offered condolences over the passing of President Raeisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, Ayatollah Sayyed Mohammad Ali Al-e Hashem, the prayer leader of Tabriz and Dr Malek Rahmati, the governor of East Azarbaijan province and other officials accompanying President Raeisi in this trip.

Hujjat-ul-Islam Hamid Shahriari (L) greeting Iranian President Ayatollah Raeisi at opening ceremony of 37th Islamic Unity Conference in Tehran in September 2023.

 
The helicopter carrying Iranian President Sayyed Ebrahim Raeisi and other officials was forced to make a "hard landing" as early reports said.
 
Rescue efforts were underway since early hours as Russia and Turkey also deployed teams to help with the search operation.
 
The nine people on board have been pronounced dead on Monday following long hours of overnight search operation.