In Dubai, United Arab Emirates, a significant figure has recently reappeared as Iran readies for the extended funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. General Ahmad Vahidi, a key leader of Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard, was seen attending a meeting regarding Khamenei’s funeral. This was his first public appearance since February 8, marking a notable return during this turbulent time.
Photos from Iranian state media showed Vahidi alongside Khamenei’s casket during an intimate service for the leader, who passed away at 86. The service was held near Khamenei’s former residence in central Tehran. Experts suggest Vahidi plays a crucial role in shaping Iran’s firm stance on potentially ending hostilities with the United States.
Vahidi is believed to be closely connected with Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Mojtaba, reportedly wounded in Israeli attacks that claimed his father’s life, remains out of public view. Iran’s state media broadcasted the mourning ceremony, which took place near the husseiniyah in Khamenei’s compound. These initial strikes of the conflict not only killed Khamenei but also affected his close kin.
The backdrop of the event was marked by Khamenei’s body in a coffin on a stage, adorned with red tulips. Paper-crafted butterflies were seen hanging in front of the coffin. It was a solemn event attended by mourners dressed in black, identified as relatives of those who suffered losses in recent conflicts, including the 12-day war in 2025.
Mourners engaged in a traditional practice by tossing scarves and other belongings towards the coffin. This gesture signifies seeking blessings as the items come into contact with it. At a subsequent point, images depicted Khamenei’s casket draped in a red flag inscribed with “Ya Hussein,” referencing the historic martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson.
The flag had previously been displayed over the Imam Hussein shrine in Karbala, Iraq. It signifies both the blood spilled of someone wronged and a call for retribution. On Friday morning, Khamenei’s coffin, accompanied by heightened security forces, was carried hand-over-head to the Grand Mosalla in Tehran. Religious figures paid their respects, including other family members who were slain, like his young granddaughter Zahra Mohammadi Golpayegani.
Beginning Saturday, a prolonged funeral is set for Khamenei. Plans involve taking his remains through various cities in Iran and Iraq, with closures affecting streets and airspace in Tehran. The nation honors Khamenei’s long tenure, marked by stern leadership and confrontation with Western powers.