Iran Holds Extended Funeral for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei Following Airstrike

Iran commenced an extensive funeral process for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who passed away months after an airstrike. The event began on Saturday in Tehran, where his casket was displayed at the Grand Mosalla. Mourners gathered, expressing grief and chanting calls for revenge.

Billboards featured Khamenei’s image, and attendees carried banners and flags. The ceremony included traditional Shiite mourning practices, with participants rhythmically beating their chests. Hananeh Mousavi, a 27-year-old mourner, expressed deep sorrow while attending with her mother.

The Grand Mosalla hosted an outdoor stage echoing the design of the one where Khamenei formerly spoke in downtown Tehran. That location was destroyed in an Israeli airstrike, which had targeted Khamenei and his family in February at the onset of the conflict.

Crowds gathered in anticipation of millions attending, reminiscent of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s burial in 1989. The government provided cold drinks and water to the attendees due to the summer heat. Ali Kazemi from Tabriz commented on their unity in defending their nation and religion.

The large gathering aimed to strengthen Iran’s negotiation position over the Strait of Hormuz in talks with the United States. The threat of further attacks by Israel remains a significant concern.

Coinciding with the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations on July 4, the timing was noted, despite no official acknowledgment. In response, attendees chanted anti-American slogans. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump remarked on the conflict during a speech in South Dakota.

Mourners displayed a flag with anti-Trump messages during the ceremony. Khamenei’s remains will be transported across Iran and into Iraq. Tehran has halted daily activities for the occasion.

It is uncertain if Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s successor, will attend his father’s funeral. In 1989, the previous succession saw a public display of grief by the new leader at Khomeini’s funeral, marking his ascent during a period of tension with the West.

The recent threats towards Mojtaba Khamenei from Israel prompted a stern warning from Iran’s military to both Israel and the U.S. against any further provocative actions.

Gambrell contributed the report from Dubai, United Arab Emirates.