On July 6, 2026, huge crowds filled the streets of Tehran for the funeral procession of the late supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, following his death during the initial phase of the war involving the US and Israel. Tens of thousands of mourners gathered to pay their respects as Khamenei's flag-draped coffin was transported along a 10km route through the capital.
The procession commenced after Khamenei's body lay in state for two days at the Grand Mosalla mosque in Tehran. Notably, three of his sons prayed beside the coffin, while his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, was absent due to serious injuries sustained in an Israeli airstrike that also killed his father.
Details of Khamenei's Funeral Procession
The funeral procession progressed slowly from Imam Hossein Square to Azadi Square, marking the culmination of three days of public mourning in the capital. State media reported that millions filled the main boulevards, surrounding the black lorry carrying Khamenei's coffin and the coffins of four family members. Mourners waved Iranian flags and red banners symbolizing vengeance, showcasing their loyalty to the late leader.
Placards with messages such as "We must rise" and calls for the death of US President Donald Trump were prominent, reflecting the anger towards those perceived as responsible for Khamenei's death. Many mourners expressed their grief and resolve, with one university student, Melika Nourian, stating, "I came with honour and pride to show all the people of the world how much we loved him and how committed we are to the system, the people, and the Islamic Republic."
Political Figures in Attendance
Former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad made a notable appearance at the procession, his first since the war began. Current president Masoud Pezeshkian was also seen among the mourners, emphasizing Khamenei's legacy as a unifying force for the people of Iran. He commented on X that Khamenei had taught Iranians that their greatest asset was their unity.
