Hezbollah, Hamas, and Houthi Leaders Attend Khamenei's Funeral in Tehran

Tens of thousands of mourners gathered at Tehran's Grand Mosalla Mosque on Saturday to pay their respects to the late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Among the attendees were high-ranking officials from Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthi movement, reflecting Iran's longstanding support for these groups as part of its strategy against Israel.

Funeral Attendees from the Axis of Resistance

The funeral ceremonies for Khamenei, who passed away at the age of 86, drew representatives from various Tehran-backed militant organizations. Hezbollah's delegation was led by senior official Mohammed Fneish, while Hamas was represented by its political bureau head, Mohammed Darwish. The Houthis were represented by senior member Dhaif Allah al-Shami.

State media reported that envoys from Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during the ceremonies. The presence of these groups underscores the collaborative ties within the so-called 'axis of resistance' that Iran has fostered over the years.

Massive Turnout Expected for Khamenei's Funeral

Authorities anticipate that around 15 million people will attend the funeral rites for Khamenei, highlighting the significant public support he commanded during his leadership. Following a day of lying in state, Khamenei's coffin was displayed outdoors, accompanied by those of several family members who were killed in a recent US-Israeli airstrike.

The funeral procession is expected to continue in multiple cities, including Qom, Najaf, and Kerbala, with plans for large public gatherings and logistical support for attendees.

Impact of Khamenei's Death on Regional Dynamics

Khamenei's death marks a pivotal moment in Iranian politics and its regional influence. As the leader of Iran since 1989, Khamenei's policies significantly shaped Iran's foreign relations, particularly with groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, all of which have been designated as terrorist organizations by the U.S. and other Western nations.

His leadership was characterized by a staunch opposition to Israel and a commitment to supporting allied militant groups across the Middle East. The future of these alliances may now hinge on the successor's approach to foreign policy.