Pope Francis has sent his “heartfelt condolences” to the families of victims killed in a deadly plane crash in Iran yesterday that claimed at least 38 lives including children.
The telegram was sent Monday on behalf of the Holy Father by Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to Archbishop Ignazio Bedini of Ispahan.
According to state media reports, at least 38 people were killed when a small passenger plane crashed near the Iranian capital Tehran.
The Antonov An-140 turboprop plane, en route to the eastern city of Tabas, came down after take-off in a residential area, near Mehrabad airport on Sunday morning.
On board were 40 passengers, including six children and eight crew, according to Iran’s deputy transport minister, Ahmad Majidi.
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Full Text of the Telegram:
The Most Reverend Ignazio Bedini
Archbishop of Ispahan
President of the Episcopal Conference of Iran
His Holiness Pope Francis was deeply saddened by the tragic air accident in Tehran, and he asks to convey his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. Praying for the eternal repose of those killed, His Holiness invokes upon all who mourn their loss, divine blessings of strength, consolation and peace.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin
Secretary of State
