“THE DEATH OF IRAN’S PRESIDENT EBRAHIM RAISI”
Syllabus:
- GS-2- India and bilateral relations with Iran , Gulf countries and world Peace.
Focus :
- The focus of the article is the impact of the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi and other key officials in a helicopter crash on May 19, amidst regional tensions and internal protests. It examines Raisi’s role, the continuity of Iran’s foreign policy, succession challenges, and the implications for India-Iran relations, particularly regarding the Chabahar port project.
Source-IE
Key Events
Helicopter Crash
- On May 19, Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian, and six others died in a helicopter crash.
- The crash occurred amid high regional tensions and ongoing conflicts.
Timing and Context
- The accident came shortly after Iran’s direct attack on Israel in April.
- The Gaza war continues, with Iran supporting Hamas and other militants.
- Iran faces domestic protests and political instability.
Importance of Ebrahim Raisi
Role in Iran’s Government
- Iran’s president manages daily government affairs.
- Critical policies are set by the Supreme Leader, who holds more power.
Raisi’s Alignment with the Establishment
- Unlike some previous presidents, Raisi aligned closely with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- He shifted Iran’s focus from Western dialogue to closer ties with Russia and China.
- His policies included supporting non-state actors and expanding the nuclear program.
Aggressive Policies
- Iran adopted a more aggressive stance towards Israel under Raisi.
- The April 14 attack exemplified this shift in policy.
India -Iran Relation :
1. Historical and Cultural Ties:
2. Strategic and Economic Projects:
3. Energy Partnership:
4. Geopolitical Balancing:
5. Regional Security Cooperation:
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Impact on Iran’s Policies
Continuity of Foreign Policy
- Raisi’s death is not expected to change Iran’s foreign policy significantly.
- Supreme Leader Khamenei emphasized continuity and stability.
Focus on Domestic Transition
- The regime will focus on electing a new president.
- Attention will also be on finding Khamenei’s successor.
Past Losses of Key Figures
- Iran has previously lost influential figures like Qassem Soleimani and Mohsen Fakhrizadeh.
- These losses have not disrupted the national project significantly.
Succession Challenges
- Electing a New President
- Iran must quickly elect a new president amid ongoing tensions and protests.
Identifying Khamenei’s Successor
- Potential successors like Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani and Mahmoud Hashemi Shahroudi have died.
- Raisi was seen as a potential successor, leaving a void in leadership.
Impact on India-Iran Relations
Historical Relationship
- India has maintained a strong relationship with Iran since 1979.
- Trade ties have suffered due to U.S. sanctions, but the partnership remains strong.
Chabahar Port Project
- India has invested millions in the Chabahar port project.
- The project is a symbol of India-Iran cooperation.
Recent Developments
- External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended Raisi’s inauguration and met Iranian leaders in January.
- India signed a long-term agreement to develop and operate a terminal at Chabahar.
India’s Diplomatic Approach
- India has taken a neutral stance in the West Asian crisis.
- Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar visited Tehran to offer condolences, showing India’s commitment to maintaining strong ties.
Source:The Hindu
Associated Article :
https://universalinstitutions.com/heres-looking-at-you-rbi/
Mains Practice Question :
GS-2
“Discuss the impact of the death of Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi on regional geopolitics and the potential implications for India-Iran relations. Evaluate the role of Iran’s presidency within its theocratic system and how the continuity of foreign policy might be ensured despite such high-profile losses”. (250 words)