UPDATE WITH REMARKS FROM TURKISH PARLIAMENT SPEAKER
By Necva Tastan
ISTANBUL (AA) - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced on Sunday that Türkiye is closely monitoring the helicopter crash involving the Iranian president, coordinating with Iranian authorities, and is ready to provide assistance as needed.
"The President of Iran, my dear brother Mr. Ibrahim Raisi, and his delegation being involved in a helicopter accident deeply saddens us," said Erdogan on X.
"As the Republic of Türkiye, we want to express that we are closely monitoring the situation and are in full contact and coordination with Iranian authorities. We are ready to provide any necessary assistance," he added.
"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the people and government of our neighbor, friend, and brother Iran on behalf of our nation. I hope to hear positive news about Mr. Raisi and his delegation as soon as possible," Erdogan stressed.
Numan Kurtulmus, Türkiye's parliament speaker, extended his best wishes to the people and government of Iran following the helicopter crash.
Kurtulmus stated on X: "I am deeply saddened to learn about the helicopter crash involving Iranian President Mr. Ibrahim Raisi and his delegation. I extend my best wishes to the friendly and brotherly people and government of Iran, and I hope to hear good news about Mr. Raisi and his delegation soon."
The helicopter carrying Raisi reportedly made a hard landing due to weather conditions while returning from a dam inauguration ceremony on the Azerbaijan border.
The Iranian Red Crescent previously announced that the "crash" occurred between Kaleybar and Varzaqan. Iranian Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi emphasized that rescue teams had not yet reached the area.
East Azerbaijan Deputy Governor Jabbarali Zakiri stated that two of the three helicopters in Raisi's convoy had landed, while one had crashed.