Ebrahim Raisi’s death in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border has ignited widespread speculation. Many believe his demise was an assassination. They suspect Israel, Iran’s arch-enemy, played a role in this fatal incident.
Nick Griffin’s Perspective
Nick Griffin, a former Member of the European Parliament, suggested that beyond the obvious Gaza, Hezbollah, and Iran-Israel tensions, Mossad (Israel’s national intelligence agency) could be involved. He remarked, “It would not be a surprise…”. On X, Griffin pointed out that Raisi and his Azerbaijani counterpart had recently inaugurated the Qiz Qalasi hydroelectric dam. This project was hailed as a symbol of “long-term cooperation” and “friendship” between Iran and Azerbaijan, despite recent political disagreements. Griffin analyzed that improving relations between the two Shia states could help ease tensions between Azerbaijan and Armenia. He noted Israel’s financial gains from selling drones and weapons used against Armenian fighters in Nagorno-Karabakh. “Iran has firmly backed the Armenians,” Griffin stated. “Keeping the fighting on the boil benefits Israel’s arms industry and stems from ancient hatred,” he added.
Official Confirmation and Public Reaction
On Monday, Iranian State media confirmed the deaths of 63-year-old Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and seven others in the crash. A social media user speculated that Raisi’s death was an assassination and suspected Israel’s involvement.
Social Media Opinions on Ebrahim Raisi’s Death
Another user described Raisi as a “major strategist behind Iran’s proxy wars against Israel, the US, and Saudi Arabia,” noting his brutal suppression of dissent, including torture and killings. Questions have been raised about the potential involvement of domestic foes, given Raisi’s controversial tenure and harsh policies, which made him a target within Iran.
Denial from Israeli Official
An anonymous Israeli official told Reuters that Israel was not involved in the crash. “It wasn’t us,” the official stated. Despite this, the theory of Israel’s involvement gained traction, especially amid recent escalations between the two nations, including the assassination of Iranian General Mohammad Reza Zahedi in Damascus and Iran’s subsequent drone-and-missile attacks.
History of Targeted Attacks
Israel has a history of targeting senior Iranian military officials and nuclear scientists. However, there is no concrete evidence linking Israel to Raisi’s helicopter crash. Israeli officials have not commented officially on the incident.
While theories and suspicions abound, the true cause of Ebrahim Raisi’s death remains uncertain. The incident has undeniably intensified the already volatile relationship between Iran and Israel.
