- Iran began a procession through its capital Tehran for the funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday.
- Millions joined the funeral procession, with crowds moving from east to west through Tehran, from Revolution Square to Azadi Square.
- Huge crowds are expected at the funeral procession, which is likely to last between 10 and 12 hours.
- Khamenei's flag-draped coffin, along with those of his family killed in an airstrike, will be carried on board a truck through the streets of Tehran.
- Authorities have shut down streets, airspace, and daily life for the mourning period, which began on Saturday and will end on Thursday.
- Massive crowds are expected to show popular support for the government during the funeral ceremonies.
The funeral procession for Iran's late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei began in Tehran, drawing millions of mourners. Khamenei was assassinated on February 28 during the U.S.-Israel War. His coffin, draped in the national flag, was transported through the city, with mourners chanting slogans for revenge against U.S. and Israeli leaders.2
Authorities have shut down streets and airspace, with the mourning period lasting until Thursday when Khamenei will be buried at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. "Today that we are here for the funeral for our leader, it’s a very tough day," said mourner Fatima Hassan, emphasizing the desire for retribution.5
The procession is expected to last 10 to 12 hours, with crowds moving from Revolution Square to Azadi Square. "We back our revolution and our leader, and we demand revenge for the blood of our loved ones," stated a mourner named Bakand. The event is seen as a demonstration of national unity amid ongoing conflict.
Khamenei's assassination has intensified calls for vengeance, with signs demanding the deaths of Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. "The killers (of Khamenei) must face punishment," said a mourner named Miremadi. The Iranian leadership, including Khamenei's sons, attended the ceremonies, although Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Supreme Leader, was absent due to security concerns.
The funeral is a pivotal moment for Iran's government, showcasing resilience after weeks of war. "This greatness, these tears that flow from the eyes of girls, men, and children, is not something that can be created by order," said Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, countering claims of insincerity from U.S. officials.
“Authorities shut down streets, airspace, and daily life for the mourning period, which culminates Thursday with Khamenei's burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. Mourners chanted for revenge, with Fatima Hassan saying 'we are not here to say goodbye; we are here for revenge' against Trump and Netanyahu.”
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