Key facts
- Iran has begun a week-long series of funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- Khamenei was reportedly killed in February strikes.
- Funeral processions are planned in Iran and Iraq.
- Iran anticipates over 20 million mourners.
- The burial is scheduled for July 9.
- Approximately 30 countries, excluding Western nations, are expected to send delegations.
Iran has commenced a week of funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in February strikes. The events began on Saturday, with thousands of mourners gathering in Tehran's Grand Mosalla complex. Funeral processions are also planned in Iran and Iraq, with the burial set for July 9.
Iranian officials expect over 20 million people to participate in the mourning period. Approximately 30 countries, including Russia and the Taliban, are anticipated to send delegations, though Western nations are notably absent. Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi, the IRGC caretaker commander, made his first public appearance since the US-Israel war amid the ongoing events.
Iranian international relations researcher Mohsen Farkhani stated that over 20 million people are expected to participate in the funeral, describing the turnout as a demonstration of support for the Islamic Republic. Farkhani added that the funeral would send a message to Washington and Tel Aviv that external pressure would not weaken Iran’s unity, and that the legitimacy of the Iranian system is rooted in popular support.
The six-day funeral period is intended to display national power and resilience, with extensive security measures and public access arrangements in place. Major traffic restrictions have been implemented in Tehran.