TEHRAN: The final report by the Armed Forces of Iran on the helicopter crash claimed that no signs of sabotage were found in the plane crash that claimed lives of President Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage.
President Raisi, his foreign minister and other senior officials, died when their helicopter crashed in a mountainous region near the Azerbaijan border on May 19.
The General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces released its final report on Sunday, confirming earlier findings that harsh weather conditions in northwestern Iran at the time of the incident, including a dense and rising fog, was the primary cause of the crash.
All documents related to the helicopter’s maintenance and repairs since its purchase were meticulously reviewed by military and civilian experts, who determined that all major repairs and replacement of critical parts were carried out in accordance with standard regulations.
The report also said that detailed analysis of the flight path showed that the helicopter was on its predetermined route and had not deviated from it during the course of the flight.
Remaining parts and systems from the crashed helicopter—including engines, power transmission systems, fuel systems, and electronic equipment—were thoroughly tested by experts from the Ministry of Defense and no defects were found that could have contributed to the crash, it added.
Additionally, a forensic committee conducted toxicological and pathological tests on the remains of the victims and the results indicated no suspicious findings. The investigation also ruled out the possibility of sabotage or the helicopter being targeted by offensive and defensive systems, cyber attacks, or magnetic fields and lasers.
Earlier in May, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with the Supreme Leader of Iran, Ayatollah Imam Khamenei and offered condolences on the tragic demise of President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hussein Amirabdollahian and others in a helicopter crash.
According to a press statement issued by PM Office, PM Shehbaz said that President Ebrahim Raisi was an exemplary leader, who demonstrated steadfast commitment to serving his nation and people.
Recalling President Raisi’s visit to Pakistan in April 2024, he highlighted the significant role of the late Iranian President in further strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iran.
The prime minister said that the services rendered by President Ebrahim Raisi for the unity of the Muslim Ummah and for the people of Gaza will be remembered in history.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to continuing the vision of the late Iranian President towards enhancing bilateral trade and bolstering relations between the two friendly and brotherly countries. –Agencies
