As public mourning ceremonies commenced, Iranian citizens gathered to view the casket of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, killed during U.S.-Israeli attacks. The event marked the beginning of a series of tributes across the country.

On Saturday, huge crowds assembled in Tehran to pay their respects to the former supreme leader at his state funeral. Ayatollah Khamenei, a dominant figure in Iran for decades, died during the conflict with the United States and Israel in late February.

Thousands arrived at dawn at the Grand Mosalla mosque in Tehran. This marked the start of six days of public ceremonies, with millions expected to join as the ayatollah’s body travels to various cities.

Journalists from The New York Times witnessed emotional scenes as supporters wept at the sight of the ayatollah’s casket, flanked by several family members who were also victims in the attack. His daughter and two grandchildren were among those killed. The caskets, encased in glass and draped in the Iranian flag, were placed on a stage with Ayatollah Khamenei’s coffin positioned prominently.

Iran faces mounting turmoil, moving from crisis to crisis. This year saw massive antigovernment protests met with brutal crackdowns, followed by prolonged conflict involving the United States and Israel. Israeli airstrikes claimed the lives of Ayatollah Khamenei and other top leaders on the conflict’s first day.

While his supporters mourn, there is widespread dissatisfaction among the public regarding the extensive funeral proceedings. Over his 37-year rule, Ayatollah Khamenei was known for suppressing dissent and permitting economic mismanagement and corruption.