Publish Date: 4 May 2017 - 15:18

TEHRAN, May 04 (MNA) – Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Khamenei extended his condolences over the death of dozens of coal miners killed in an explosion in northern Iran, urging acceleration of rescue operations.

“The harrowing and tragic mine incident which caused the death of dozens of hardworking and suffering workers has left me grief-stricken and in mourning,” Ayatollah Khamenei said in a message on Thursday, referring to the blast which occurred in Zemestanyurt coal mine in Golestan Province on Wednesday and killed at least 35 workers and injured scores of others. 

“It is necessary that all possible measures  be taken to rescue those still trapped in the mine,” he stressed.

The Leader extended his condolences to the families of victims and prayed to God to bestow patience and serenity on them.

He further called on relevant bodies to make any effort necessary to accelerate relief operations. 

MS/3969834