Large crowds of Iranians assembled on Saturday for the state funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The supreme leader, who had a profound impact on the nation for decades, was killed in the U.S.-Israeli conflict in late February.
Tens of thousands of people arrived early at the Grand Mosalla mosque in Tehran to mark the start of a six-day mourning ceremony. Journalists on site reported a massive influx of mourners, many clad in black, carrying his images, waving flags, and chanting in homage.
Iran, already in disarray from crises, is facing a period of tension. Huge anti-government protests earlier this year were met with stringent crackdowns. The subsequent conflict with the U.S. and Israel led to Mr. Khamenei’s death on the war’s first day.
On Friday, officials and leaders paid respects at a private ceremony with Mr. Khamenei’s casket, draped in flags. His body will be taken through a procession starting in Tehran, then moving to the holy city of Qom, and further to Karbala and Najaf in Iraq. The burial is set for Thursday in his hometown of Mashhad.
Although his supporters mourned, many Iranians criticized the extended and costly funeral arrangements. During his 37 years of authoritarian rule, Ayatollah Khamenei suppressed dissent and allowed economic mismanagement. His son Mojtaba Khamenei, appointed as the new spiritual leader, remains unseen since his appointment.
The prolonged delay in the burial contradicts traditional religious customs. Analysts suggest possible concerns over safety amid threats from Israeli or U.S. attacks, although tensions have reduced following a recent cease-fire.
Ayatollah Khamenei held significant influence over Iran’s public life as its top religious and political leader. Some supporters camped overnight to attend the ceremony. The event aimed to manifest national unity, yet some religious hard-liners criticized the cease-fire with the U.S.
“What happened to revenge for the blood of our martyred Imam?” read one banner at the mosque, referencing Mr. Khamenei.
Further Context and Logistics
The public mourning events are expected to draw tens of millions. Ayatollah Khamenei’s remains are being taken through five cities, starting in Tehran and ending in Mashhad.
The state media stated that Ayatollah Khamenei’s body would lie in state at the Grand Mosalla, where he delivered many important addresses as supreme leader. His funeral faced delays due to conflict-related reasons.
The funeral, laden with Shiite Islamic traditions, poses a logistical challenge amid unresolved conflicts and intense summer conditions. It is uncertain if Mojtaba Khamenei, injured in an airstrike during his father’s death, will attend the ceremonies.
The Procession’s Journey
- Tehran: The procession started here. Viewing platforms were set up. Public holiday declared.
- Qom: The body will move 100 miles south to Qom for a prayer at the Jamkaran Mosque.
- Iraq: Events planned in Karbala and Najaf, both significant for Shiite pilgrims.
- Mashhad: Over a million mourners are expected for the final ceremony at Imam Reza’s shrine.