Millions Attend Funeral Procession for Iran's Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran

On Sunday, millions gathered in Tehran to participate in the funeral procession for the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, who was killed in an airstrike on February 28. The event showcased the regime's call for unity amidst ongoing negotiations to end the war with the US and Israel.

Massive Turnout for Khamenei's Funeral

The procession began at Tehran's Azadi Square and continued for approximately 12 hours, drawing a crowd that stretched for kilometers. Images from the scene showed thousands of mourners carrying placards demanding retribution against US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

According to General Hasan Hasanzadeh of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, the massive turnout was a demonstration of national strength. The coffins of Khamenei and several family members were transported on a truck adorned with traditional ornaments.

Official Mourning Period and Burial Plans

The official mourning period for Khamenei commenced on Saturday and is set to conclude on Thursday, with his burial scheduled at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, his birthplace. The ceremonies are significant as Iran's leadership seeks to maintain a facade of unity during a tumultuous time.

As the procession progressed, misted water was sprayed on attendees to alleviate the high temperatures, underscoring the scale of the event and the regime's effort to bolster public morale.

New Supreme Leader's Absence

While Khamenei's funeral attracted significant attention, his successor, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, notably did not attend. Reports suggest he is in hiding after being severely injured in the same airstrike that killed his father. In contrast, three of Khamenei's other sons were present, marking a rare public appearance during this critical period.

The ongoing negotiations between the US and Iran regarding the war remain on hold until after the funeral events have concluded. Topics under discussion include the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear program, which the US alleges aims to develop weapons, a claim Iran denies.