Johnson Declares End of Raisi’s ‘Harsh Rule’

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., issued a statement on Monday regarding the passing of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically died in a helicopter crash on Sunday.

Raisi, considered a potential successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, lost his life when his helicopter crashed in adverse weather conditions near the Azerbaijan border.

“President Raisi’s oppressive rule in Iran was characterized by violence, threat, and suppression, from the persecution of women protesting Shariah, to the support of terrorist groups that targeted Israelis,” Johnson stated. “I will be closely monitoring developments with national security authorities as more information unfolds.

“During these critical times, our thoughts are with the stability in the Middle East, with Iranian leaders who strive for peace with their neighbors and the Western world, and with the hope for a future where freedom prevails in Iran.”

Since assuming office in August 2021, Raisi, aged 63, had implemented stricter morality laws, led a violent crackdown on dissenting voices, and participated actively in nuclear negotiations with global powers.

Information sourced from Reuters.