Rail services on Iran’s crucial Tehran–Mashhad route have been disrupted following a U.S. airstrike that targeted the railway infrastructure, Iranian state media reported on Thursday, just as preparations continue for the funeral and burial of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in his hometown of Mashhad.
According to Iran’s state broadcaster IRIB, the U.S. strike directly hit the railway line linking Tehran with Mashhad. Iran’s Foreign Ministry said the attack completely destroyed two railway bridges, significantly affecting transportation along one of the country’s busiest rail corridors.
A spokesperson for the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways told Tasnim News Agency that repair work on the damaged route is underway and authorities are working to restore operations as quickly as possible.
The disruption comes amid nationwide mourning following Khamenei’s death. His funeral ceremonies have entered their final stage, with his body transported to Mashhad, where he is scheduled to be laid to rest.
Earlier on Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump said Washington had launched a “very strong” attack on Iran overnight and warned that even more severe strikes could follow later.
Meanwhile, a Mahan Air aircraft carrying Khamenei’s body landed at Mashhad International Airport. Footage broadcast by Iranian media showed the aircraft taxiing after landing. Mashhad, located in northeastern Iran, is the birthplace of the late Supreme Leader.
Iran and neighboring Iraq have observed six days of mourning since Khamenei’s death. Millions of mourners reportedly participated in farewell ceremonies in the Iraqi holy cities of Najaf and Karbala before the coffin was transferred to Mashhad for the final funeral rites.
Mohammad Mohammadi Golpayegani, head of Khamenei’s office, said the late leader had expressed a wish during his lifetime to be buried near the shrine of Imam Reza (AS) in Mashhad.