Huge crowds gathered in Tehran for the state funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s supreme leader, who played a significant role in shaping the nation before his death in a conflict involving the U.S. and Israel. Tens of thousands arrived at the Grand Mosalla mosque at dawn for six days of public ceremonies. Millions are anticipated to join as his body travels across Iran.

Grieving supporters, including journalists from The New York Times, witnessed emotional scenes at the sight of the caskets. The ayatollah’s coffin, encased and adorned with Iranian flags, was placed atop a stage. This moment in Iran comes after a series of crises, including antigovernment protests and a military conflict resulting in Khamenei’s death.

While his supporters mourn, many criticize the opulent funeral, reflecting on his 37-year rule marked by repression and economic issues. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, has been named as the new supreme leader, but his attendance at the funeral remains uncertain due to security concerns.

Ayatollah Khamenei is being interred months after his death, following a ceasefire between Iran and the U.S., wary of organizing events vulnerable to attacks. The funeral procession will move through sacred cities for Shiite Muslims, including Qom, Karbala, and Najaf, ultimately reaching Mashhad, his hometown.

Many mourners expressed anger over the cease-fire with the U.S., carrying banners questioning revenge for Khamenei’s assassination. Foreign dignitaries and regional allies attended the ceremonies, while peace talks with the U.S. seem stagnant.

The New York Times had limited access to the ceremonies, as designated by the Iranian government.

Will the New Supreme Leader Attend?

Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the slain leader, has not been seen publicly since his appointment due to security fears. He might attend some funeral events, notably the burial ceremony. His pursuit of safety, following injury in the same strikes that killed his father, restricts his visibility.

Concerns persist about the new leader’s security as he pursues his attendance in religious rites. Strategic decisions about public appearances are guided by security advisors, keeping in mind the potential threat of assassination attempts.

Who Was Ayatollah Ali Khamenei?

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei left a profound impact on Iran, fortifying his hold over the nation while ensuring regional influence. His death closes a critical chapter in Iranian history. Rising after the 1979 revolution, he quickly gained prominence, serving as president during Iran-Iraq War, shaping his worldview.

His ascension to supreme leader in 1989 marked a shift in power concentration, presiding over crackdowns on dissent and nurturing alliances across the region, making Iran a significant player. Despite immense authority, his demeanor often lacked charisma, driven by hostility toward the U.S.

Khamenei’s support for foreign armed groups defined Iranian foreign policy, forming an “axis of resistance” against adversaries. Domestically, his policies thwarted political openness, often resulting in violent repression of protests. His legacy divides opinions; supporters see a defender of national independence, critics portray him as presiding over a repressive and isolated state.

The funeral echoed with chants of “Death to America” amid ongoing tensions shaped by recent strikes that killed Ayatollah Khamenei. Anger and calls for revenge peppered the solemn proceedings.

Iran Projects Unity Amid Internal Crackdowns

As Iran presents a united front during the funeral, internally, dissidents face harsh repression. Reports mention recent arrests of notable environmentalists, reflecting continued government pressure on civil society.

Security forces detained two activists, Houman Jokar and Sepideh Kashani, amid intensifying crackdowns post-U.S.-Israeli war. Their arrest underlines broader efforts to silence dissent, with thousands incarcerated, highlighting a severe response to public unrest.

Iranian authorities seek to portray broad support during Khamenei’s funeral while grappling with widespread discontent over economic woes and political repression.

Funeral Procession and Ceremonies

The funeral procession of Ayatollah Khamenei spans multiple cities, symbolizing the influence he wielded. Starting at Tehran, the events feature mass participation, with significant logistics set in motion. The path includes sacred sites, emphasizing Khamenei’s religious significance.

From Tehran, the procession moves to Qom, onward to Iraq’s Shiite cities, concluding in Mashhad. Each location holds deep religious meaning, while the events test organizational capacities amid unresolved military tensions and oppressive summer heat. Mojtaba Khamenei’s participation remains uncertain, reflecting ongoing security concerns and strategic decisions about public appearances.