Former Romanian President Ion Iliescu Passes Away at 95

Bucharest, The Gulf Observer: The Government of Romania has announced with deep sorrow the passing of Ion Iliescu, former President of Romania, who died on Tuesday at the age of 95.

“It is with deep regret that the government announces the passing of the former President of Romania, Mr. Ion Iliescu. The former President of Romania died today, August 5, 2025,” read an official statement published on the Romanian government’s website.

Ion Iliescu played a pivotal role in Romania’s modern history, leading the country through its turbulent transition from communism to democracy following the fall of Nicolae Ceaușescu’s regime in 1989.

Born on March 3, 1930, Iliescu was a central figure in Romanian politics for over two decades. He first assumed the presidency in 1989, following the revolution that ended decades of communist rule. He was subsequently elected president in 1990 and re-elected in 1992, serving until 1996. He returned to office for a final term from 2000 to 2004.

Throughout his political career, Iliescu remained a polarising yet influential figure, widely credited with stabilising Romania during its formative post-communist years, while also facing criticism for his handling of the transitional justice process and the controversial role of security forces during protests in the early 1990s.

The Romanian government is expected to announce national mourning arrangements and a state funeral in the coming days to honour the late president’s contributions to the country’s political and democratic development.

Ion Iliescu’s passing marks the end of an era in Romania’s modern history. He leaves behind a complex legacy as the leader who steered the nation through one of its most transformative and challenging periods.