Pakistan on Monday expressed profound grief over the tragic death of Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, who perished in a helicopter crash. The accident also claimed the life of Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and several other officials, casting a pall of sorrow over both nations.
President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led the nation in mourning, offering heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families of the deceased Iranian leaders. In separate statements, they emphasized the deep sense of loss felt across Pakistan and the broader Muslim Ummah.
President Asif Ali Zardari paid tribute to President Raisi’s unwavering dedication to the unity of the Muslim community worldwide. He highlighted Raisi’s steadfast advocacy for Muslim causes, notably his vocal support for the Palestinian and Kashmiri people. “The Islamic world has lost a remarkable leader who always stood by the Muslim Ummah, feeling their sufferings deeply,” Zardari said. He fondly recalled Raisi’s recent visit to Pakistan, noting the special regard the late president had for Pakistan and its people. “Pakistan mourns the loss of a great friend. President Raisi’s passing is a significant loss not just for Iran but for the entire Muslim Ummah. He will be dearly missed and remembered for his efforts to enhance relations with regional and Islamic countries.”
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a heartfelt post on his X handle, described both President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian as “good friends of Pakistan.” He announced that Pakistan would observe a day of mourning, with the national flag flying at half-mast to honor the fallen leaders and express solidarity with the Iranian people. “The great Iranian nation will overcome this tragedy with customary courage,” Sharif remarked, underscoring the resilience of the Iranian people.
The Pakistani Foreign Office also expressed deep shock and grief over the tragic news. In a statement, Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch conveyed Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran during this national tragedy. She highlighted the esteemed status of President Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian as leaders who made significant contributions to their country and to fostering Pakistan-Iran relations and regional cooperation. “Their contributions will always be remembered,” Baloch said, recalling the important understandings reached during their visit to Pakistan this April, which aimed to solidify bilateral ties.
The spokesperson reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation with Iran, as envisioned by the late leaders. This tragic incident has not only left a void in Iranian leadership but has also underscored the deep-rooted ties between Pakistan and Iran, built on mutual respect and shared aspirations for regional peace and unity.
As Pakistan mourns alongside Iran, the nation reflects on the legacy of President Raisi, whose efforts to promote unity and solidarity within the Muslim world will continue to inspire future generations. His passing marks a significant moment of grief, yet also a reminder of the enduring bonds between the two nations.
