In Tehran, large crowds gathered to honor Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His funeral began, marking the start of a weeklong mourning period. The event aims to show the Islamic Republic’s strength and resilience.

Khamenei’s coffin, draped in the Iranian flag, was displayed at the Grand Mosalla mosque. It was placed alongside the coffins of his family members, who died with him in an attack four months ago.

Mourners began assembling early Saturday morning, responding to calls from Iran’s leaders to demonstrate en masse. By sunrise, their numbers had reached tens of thousands. The mourners filled the Grand Mosalla’s courtyard, expressing grief through chants and chest-beating.

The roads around the site were closed, leading many to proceed on foot. Loudspeakers played religious music. Supporters, who traveled from all over the country, waved national flags, signaling rising nationalist sentiments amidst the conflict with the U.S. and Israel.

Many in the crowd chanted for revenge, expressing anger over the death of their leader. With the temperature reaching 93 degrees, cooling measures were in place for the mourners.

The funeral is expected to draw even larger crowds on Monday, with millions anticipated to attend. This event could mark one of the largest funerals for a world leader.

Khamenei’s burial was delayed due to conflict. His son, Mojtaba, succeeded him but is absent due to injuries sustained in the attack that also killed his father.

Initial private funeral proceedings happened on Friday. Senior Iranian officials and foreign dignitaries attended, including prominent figures like Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who urged Iranians to participate in significant numbers.

Foreign delegations from countries like Russia, China, and Turkey attended these initial events. Security is a key concern due to potential threats, as seen in past attacks on Iranian figures.

Tehran’s mayor estimated up to 20 million might attend the funeral. Events will continue in Qom, Iran, and Iraq, highlighting the regional influence of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps.

The funeral procession reflects ongoing tensions as Iranian-allied groups have carried out attacks in response to the conflict. Khamenei’s burial will take place in Mashhad, home to an important Shiite shrine.