Iran Mourns Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Huge crowds of Iranians gathered to view the casket of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at a state funeral. As the country’s supreme leader, he influenced Iran for decades before his death in the recent U.S.-Israeli conflict.

Tens of thousands arrived at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla mosque. Mourners, many in black, moved toward the prayer grounds, holding his image and chanting tributes. This event marked a turbulent time for Iran, amid previous protests and violent government crackdowns.

Israeli airstrikes killed Mr. Khamenei at the start of the conflict. On Friday, foreign officials and religious leaders paid respects at a closed ceremony. After Monday’s procession in Tehran, his body will move to the holy city of Qom, then onto Karbala and Najaf in Iraq. His burial is set for Thursday in his hometown, Mashhad.

While supporters grieve, some Iranians criticize the lengthy funeral plans. Over his 37-year rule, Ayatollah Khamenei suppressed dissent and corruption grew. Mojtaba Khamenei, his son, now leads but has not been seen since his appointment.

The delay in burial goes against religious custom. Analysts suggest fears of attacks from Israel or the U.S. after a recent cease-fire delayed the ceremonies. As Iran’s top leader, Ayatollah Khamenei had significant influence. His passing prompts both sorrow and criticism.

Some religious hard-liners see the cease-fire as a defeat. A banner at the mosque read, “What happened to revenge for the blood of our martyred Imam?”

Peace Talks

Negotiations between Iran and the U.S. are strained. Talks, mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, have not prevented new conflicts or reopened vital shipping lanes.

Funeral Procession Route

Ayatollah Khamenei’s body will travel through at least five cities, beginning in Tehran and ending in Mashhad. The week-long funeral adheres to Shiite traditions and will draw millions.

The procession began with foreign leaders visiting the Grand Mosalla. The funeral delayed due to conflict, starts Saturday with public ceremonies. The leader’s death holds spiritual significance for many Shiites.

The week of funerals tests Iran’s logistical capabilities amid ongoing U.S. conflicts. It’s unknown if Mojtaba Khamenei, injured in an airstrike, will attend.

Tehran

The funeral started at the Grand Mosalla with the doors opening at 6 a.m. on Saturday. Officials expect over 700,000 pilgrims to participate. Mourners are encouraged to use public transport to avoid traffic.

Qom

On Tuesday, the procession moves to Qom, with plans for mass prayers at Jamkaran Mosque. Officials have prepared millions of water bottles and sandwiches for large crowds.

Iraq

Ceremonies in Karbala and Najaf follow on Wednesday. Both cities are meaningful to Shiite pilgrims. Ayatollah Khamenei wielded significant political influence despite not being the sect’s top cleric.

Mashhad

The procession concludes Thursday in Mashhad, with more than a million mourners expected. He will be buried at the shrine of Imam Reza. Ebrahimi Raisi, Iran’s former president, was buried in the same location.