The Iranian embassy in Abu Dhabi is opening a condolence book for those who wish to pay their respects following the tragic death of the republic's president. The condolence service will be available on-site for two days and also online. Mourners can visit the embassy in person from May 22 to 23, 10am to 2pm.
“On this sad occasion, a book of condolences will be opened at the embassy's premises at Villa no 115, Arzam St in Embassies Area, Abu Dhabi,” read a statement released by the embassy. “A virtual message of condolences can also be sent to the e-mail address: emb_abudhabi@yahoo.com.”
On Sunday, a helicopter carrying Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, and six other passengers and crew crashed in the mountains near the Azerbaijan border. After an overnight search in blizzard conditions, the charred wreckage was found with no survivors, according to Iranian state media. Raisi was seen as a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The embassy's note further mentioned that it “regrets” to inform everyone about the “martyrdom” of the political figures and their companions in the crash. It also took the opportunity to “renew to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and to all Diplomatic Missions and International Organizations accredited to the UAE the assurances of its highest consideration.”
Iran is scheduled to hold presidential elections on June 28, as reported by state media. On Monday, UAE leaders joined heads of state and influential figures from around the world in expressing their solidarity with Iran. President Sheikh Mohamed expressed his deepest condolences to the Iranian government and people over the passing of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and those accompanying them following a tragic accident.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, also offered his prayers for those who lost their lives in the crash.
