Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed deep sadness over the helicopter accident involving Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and offered extensive support for the search and rescue efforts.
Erdogan stated that Turkey is in close contact and coordination with Iranian authorities and is prepared to provide all necessary assistance. This sentiment was conveyed through a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Iran’s Raisi and Erdogan
Iranian search and rescue teams are currently scouring a foggy mountainside, following reports from Iranian state media that Raisi’s helicopter experienced an accident. In response, a Turkish foreign ministry spokesperson confirmed that Iran had requested technical support from Turkey. The spokesperson mentioned ongoing discussions to determine the quickest and most effective aid Turkey could provide.
Turkey’s emergency aid agency, AFAD, announced the deployment of a helicopter equipped for night searches and the mobilization of 32 mountain rescue specialists. These specialists, along with 32 vehicles, were dispatched from centers in eastern Turkey to aid in the search efforts.
In addition to Turkey, other nations and entities, including Azerbaijan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the European Union, have also extended their offers of assistance to Iran. This international response underscores the gravity of the situation and the collaborative efforts to ensure the safety and recovery of those involved.
President Erdogan’s solidarity follows President Raisi’s state visit to Ankara in January, highlighting the ongoing diplomatic and supportive relations between Turkey and Iran during this critical incident.
