Five-Day Mourning Declared in Iran

A five-day mourning period has been declared in Iran in memory of the country’s deceased President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions, announced the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday.

"I declare a five-day mourning period and express my condolences to the precious people of Iran," Khamenei's words are quoted by the Tasnim news agency.

He also emphasized that in accordance with Article 131 of the constitution, Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Mohib will "become the head of the executive power and is committed to coordinating with the heads of the legislative and judicial authorities regarding the election of a new president within the upcoming 50 days."

It is added that the funeral ceremony for President Ebrahim Raisi and his companions will take place on Tuesday, May 21, in the city of Tabriz, Tasnim agency reports.