Another layer of turmoil has been added to the violent disputes in the Middle East, with searches currently underway for Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi following a helicopter crash in the country’s East Azerbaijan province.

ANU Lecturer in Middle Eastern Studies Alam Saleh told Millsy and Karl on 6PR Breakfast whether or not the incident turns out to be deliberate or not, it spells trouble for Iran.

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“Whether Iran would admit if a foreign actor has been involved, Tehran is not prepared for… another war,” Dr Saleh said.

“Even the hardliners are divided; there’s a lot of dispute over who would potentially succeed him in 50 days’ time.”