Millions of people reportedly gathered in the Iranian capital, Tehran, to attend the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US–Israeli airstrike in February, according to international media reports. The week-long mourning ceremonies, which began on Saturday (June 4), have created an atmosphere marked by grief, political messaging, and heightened tensions across the city.
Reports say large crowds, dressed in black as a symbol of mourning in Shia tradition, gathered at the Grand Mosalla religious complex, with many also carrying red flags. Amid the atmosphere of grief, mourners were seen expressing their respects through traditional mourning rituals, including chest-beating, while chanting slogans that intensified the emotional tone of the gathering.
According to the report, Khamenei—who led Iran for over three decades since 1989—was killed at the age of 86 on February 28, along with his family members and senior officials, in an Israeli airstrike on the first day of the conflict. His rule is widely described as having been marked by deep hostility toward Western countries and strict control over domestic dissent.
Despite extreme heat reaching nearly 40°C, thousands participated in the gathering at the Mosalla complex in Tehran. Cooling measures, including artificial water sprinkling, were arranged to ease conditions for attendees. Men and women were seated in separate sections in accordance with religious and social customs.
At the central stage, a coffin draped with a traditional black turban—symbolic of clerical authority—was placed for the funeral rites. Coffins of four other family members were also reportedly present, including that of his 14-month-old granddaughter, Zahra Mohammadi Golpayegani, which drew particular attention from attendees.
Participants were heard chanting slogans such as “Death to America” and “Revenge,” according to reports. Analysts suggest the large-scale funeral also serves as a significant political demonstration of public alignment with the current leadership.
Although a temporary ceasefire is currently in place following weeks of conflict with the United States, both sides have continued to issue warnings of possible renewed escalation. Meanwhile, traffic reportedly eased across parts of Tehran as residents either joined the ceremonies or temporarily left the city.
Speculation surrounding succession—particularly involving Mojtaba Khamenei—remains unconfirmed, as he has not been seen publicly during the ceremonies. Senior state officials were also reported to have displayed unity during the mourning period.
Authorities estimate that attendance in Tehran alone could exceed 10 million people, making it potentially the largest mass gathering in Iran since 1989. Tight security measures have been implemented across the capital.
The funeral process is also reportedly planned to continue through a series of ceremonies extending from Tehran to Qom and onward via Iraq to Mashhad.
Source: Hürriyet Daily News