Members of the Iran-backed “Axis of Resistance” mourned the loss of President Ebrahim Raisi after Iran confirmed his death in a helicopter crash.
The Palestinian militant group Hamas, Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Yemen’s Huthi rebels, the Syrian government, and Iraq-based armed groups expressed their condolences for Raisi and the other eight individuals who perished in the crash on Sunday. Among the deceased was Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, known for his strong anti-Israel stance and skepticism towards the West.
Hamas praised Raisi as an “honorable supporter” of their cause, acknowledging his solidarity and efforts on behalf of Palestinians since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. They highlighted his political and diplomatic efforts to counter Israeli aggression.
Lebanon’s Hezbollah lauded Raisi as a “staunch defender” of their causes and a protector of resistance movements. They expressed deep condolences, noting their long-standing relationship with him.
Yemen’s Huthi rebels, through spokesperson Mohammed Abdulsalam, remarked on Raisi’s importance to the Islamic world and Palestinian struggle, emphasizing the loss of a leader who defended Palestinian rights.
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad expressed solidarity with Iran, recognizing Raisi’s role in fostering strategic relations between Syria and Iran. Syria and Lebanon declared three days of official mourning.
Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces (Hashed al-Shaabi) also conveyed their sympathies, highlighting Raisi’s commitment to the unity of Iraq and Iran. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohamed Shia al-Sudani affirmed his support for the Iranian people during this time of mourning.