Iran begins week-long funeral for Supreme Leader Khamenei killed in US-Israeli strikes
Iran commenced week-long mourning ceremonies on Friday for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on February 28. The state funeral began with Khamenei's body lying in state at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla in Tehran.
The ceremonies include processions through Tehran, Qom, and Iraq's Karbala, culminating in burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. Authorities have called for mass participation from citizens, government officials, and members of paramilitary groups.
President Masoud Pezeshkian urged public attendance, describing the funeral as a demonstration of national unity. The funeral was delayed for several months as the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States continued.
India has sent an official delegation led by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain. Congress leader Salman Khurshid, BJP president Nitin Nabin, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti, and Aga Syed Hassan Mosavi Al Safavi also received invitations.
Security was tightened around the funeral venue, with multiple checkpoints, barricades, and road closures established within a half-mile radius. Large portraits of Khamenei, black mourning flags, and red banners symbolizing martyrdom and vengeance lined the area. Authorities closed nearby roads hours before the ceremony, catching some drivers off guard.
Iran's army commander vowed to avenge Khamenei's death. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump are scheduled to meet in the United States soon.
