The death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi could not have come at a worse time for Iran as it is already struggling to stabilise a stricken economy, battered by US-imposed sanctions and trying to calm social tensions. In addition, the war in Gaza is adding to its woes and the nuclear deal remains dead. Last April, Raisi oversaw Iran retaliating with an Israel strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus. Israel’s weak response avoided an all-out war but tensions remained high. However, his untimely death has pointed a finger of suspicion at Israel. Iran’s Vice President Mohammed Mokhber has been announced as interim president, providing a measure of continuity. Still uncertainty looms as the election for new president must be arranged within 50 days. Interestingly, Raisi’s close relationship with PM Modi saw the signing of the Chabahar port agreement. Iran has a major role in regional dynamics as it is a vocal supporter of Hamas, Hezbollah and other armed groups fighting Israel. Therefore much will depend on how the incoming Iranian president choses to respond to continuous Israeli provocation.
