Iran’s Guardian Council Approves Candidates for June Presidential Election

Following a helicopter crash that killed President Ebrahim Raisi and seven others, Iran’s Guardian Council has approved six candidates, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, for the June 28 presidential election. Former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad was once again barred from running. The election campaign will be a condensed two-week period, with candidates set to participate in televised debates and public speeches. The council’s selection suggests Iran’s leadership aims to ensure a smooth electoral process amidst low voter turnout and tensions over the nuclear program and regional conflicts.

Belarus President Blames Western Sanctions for Iran President’s Helicopter Crash

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko has accused Western sanctions of contributing to the death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash. Lukashenko, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, made the remarks during a joint press conference in Moscow. Raisi died on May 19 when his helicopter caught fire after hitting elevated terrain in northwestern Iran. A preliminary report by Iran’s armed forces found no bullet holes or suspicious communications, suggesting the crash was an accident. However, Lukashenko claims that sanctions prevented proper maintenance of the helicopter, leading to its failure.

U.N. Lowers Flag for Deceased Iranian President Raisi, Prompting Global Reflection and Controversial Condolences

The United Nations lowered its flag to half-mast to honor the passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi. Raisi, known as the “Butcher of Tehran,” was known for his role in human rights abuses and his support of terrorism. While some nations mourned his death, others expressed relief and criticized the Biden administration’s offer of condolences. The incident sparked a global debate about the erosion of human values and the nature of Iran’s political system, which has been plagued by accusations of sham elections and suppression of dissent.

Ebrahim Raisi’s Death: An Opportunity for Biden to Change Iran Policy

The sudden passing of Ebrahim Raisi, the Iranian President known as the ‘Butcher of Tehran,’ has sparked reactions and concerns, particularly regarding the Biden administration’s response. While Raisi’s death is unlikely to bring immediate changes within Iran, it presents an opportunity for the Biden team to reassess its Iran policy and ensure the safety of America, Israel, and the Middle East. However, the administration’s ‘condolences’ to the Iranian regime have been met with criticism, emphasizing the need for a more assertive and strategic approach to deterring Iranian aggression and supporting the opposition movement within the country.

Death of Iranian President Raises Questions About Future of Leadership

The sudden death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash has raised questions about the future direction of the country’s political system. While unlikely to result in immediate changes, Raisi’s death raises the possibility of a hereditary succession, with Khamenei’s son potentially assuming the position of Supreme Leader. This could challenge the legitimacy of the Islamic Republic, which was founded as an alternative to hereditary rule.

Top News of May 21: India Mourns Iranian President Raisi, PM Modi’s Kashi Roadshow, Q4 Results Awaited

In a mark of respect for the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, India has declared a one-day state mourning on May 21st. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to engage with 25,000 women in Kashi during a conference. Several listed companies, including BHEL and JKTyres, will be announcing their Q4 earnings today. To combat the intense heatwave, Punjab schools will remain closed from May 21st to June 30th. Additionally, Riyadh is preparing to host the World Annual General Assembly of aviation leaders from May 21st to 23rd.

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