Call for Prompt Action to Aid Flood-Hit People

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has instructed authorities to take urgent actions in providing assistance to people in Iranian provinces hit by the recent devastating flooding. "The urgent task of related authorities is to assist the affected people and reduce their pain," Ayatollah Khamenei said in a message on Saturday, adding that measures should be taken without delay, Tasnim News Agency reported. The Leader also voiced sympathy with the bereaved families of the victims. Iran's Crisis Management Organization has confirmed the deaths of over 40 people in severe flash floods triggered by torrential rains in four northwestern provinces. Heavy rains started on Friday and surging waters caused rivers to burst their banks, sweep away occupied cars and flood houses in the provinces of East and West Azarbaijan, Kurdestan and Ardabil.