Iran’s leader reflects on late president’s legacy in anniversary message

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, has issued a new public message marking the anniversary of the death of President Ebrahim Raisi and members of his delegation, highlighting the late president’s legacy and addressing the current situation involving Iran.

In a statement published on his Telegram channel, Khamenei described Raisi’s death as a defining moment that continues to resonate in Iran’s political and social life. He said Raisi’s sacrifice symbolised responsibility, justice, closeness to the people, and active diplomacy, and also served as a source of inspiration for Iran’s allies and fighters of the Resistance Front.

According to Khamenei, these qualities reflect the spiritual depth and resilience required to maintain strong ties between the state and society. He also pointed to the large-scale farewell ceremony held after Raisi’s death, describing it as a symbol of national unity and respect for his contributions.

Raisi died in a helicopter crash in 2024.

Khamenei also addressed what he described as an ongoing war involving Iran, framing it as a significant moment for the country and its leadership.

“We’re now witnessing the Iranian nation’s historic, unprecedented epic of resistance against two global, terrorist armies. This reality places a heavier burden of responsibility on the officials of the Islamic Republic – from the Leader and the heads of the three branches of government to managers at all levels. Today, being thankful for this blessing of the unity of the nation, the government, and all institutions of the Islamic Republic lies in increasing motivation and intensifying the diligent service of our officials. It means actively addressing the people's problems and concerns – particularly in the areas of economics and livelihood – through a widespread, direct presence and by defining a serious role for the people who have become active on the scene for them to strive on the path of the country's progress with hope toward a bright future,” Khamenei said.

By Tamilla Hasanova