Massive crowds gathered in Tehran on Saturday for the state funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s long-serving supreme leader. Khamenei, who was killed during a U.S.-Israeli conflict in February, governed Iran for decades. The ceremony at the Grand Mosalla mosque marks the start of six days of public mourning.
Tens of thousands arrived at dawn, with millions expected to participate as the ayatollah’s body travels to cities across Iran. Journalists observed grieving supporters in tears, mourning the loss of Khamenei and his family members, whose caskets were displayed under Iranian flags.
Iran faces internal strife, having endured antigovernment protests and a harsh government response earlier this year. Khamenei’s authoritarian rule saw repression and economic difficulties. Although supporters mourn his death, many criticize the lavish funeral.
Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba, now the new supreme leader, has not been seen publicly since his appointment, raising questions about his funeral attendance. His father’s burial follows a recent cease-fire with the U.S., reflecting tensions over security concerns.
The funeral procession includes stops in Tehran, Qom, and significant Shiite cities in Iraq, concluding in Mashhad, Khamenei’s hometown. The event serves as a show of strength for Iran’s Islamic Republic amidst ongoing unrest and hostilities with the U.S. and Israel.
“His safety should definitely be the priority,” said supporter Ehsan Hosseini regarding Mojtaba’s potential attendance.
As they gathered, mourners expressed their discontent with the ceasefire with the U.S., chanting slogans against past foreign interventions in chants of solidarity.
Foreign dignitaries and regional militants paid respects at Khamenei’s flag-draped casket, highlighting his influence. The Iranian regime seeks to show political solidarity despite tensions after Khamenei’s death.
Alongside the mourning, authorities continue to crack down on dissidents, arresting environmentalists and accusing others of assisting foreign adversaries. The crackdown followed protest movements and actions deemed threatening to the regime.
As the funeral unfolds, thousands navigated crowded streets to honor Khamenei, whose influence reached beyond politics into religious significance. The procession poses logistical challenges, considering geopolitical strife and summer heat.
The funeral route extends through cities like Qom and into Iraq, where Khamenei will be mourned at significant Shiite religious sites. Organizers anticipate vast crowds, providing logistical preparations for those attending.