The body of Iran's supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes that triggered a Middle East war, now lies in state at Tehran's Grand Mosalla ahead of his funeral. Millions of mourners and foreign dignitaries are expected to attend the official ceremony.
Funeral Preparations Underway
Mourners carried Khamenei's coffin, draped in Iran's tricolour flag, into the Grand Mosalla, one of the Islamic republic's most important ceremonial venues. Crowds clad in black gathered as the coffin was set against red flowers and white decorations. Ahmad Vahidi, head of the Revolutionary Guards, made his first public appearance since the war began in February to pay his respects.
Preparations for the public funeral, initially delayed at the height of the war, are taking place as Iran and the United States observe a fragile ceasefire after a preliminary deal to halt the conflict. Pakistan, a key mediator, confirmed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will attend. China, Afghanistan, and Caucasus nations also announced representatives.
Massive Turnout Expected
Workers ready the Grand Mosalla as security teams stop cars. "We are planting flowers and watering shrubs for the farewell ceremony of our martyred guide," said worker Hossein Moghadassi. He added that people from across Iran will create huge crowds. Iran's chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf called for all Iranians to attend, stating the nation's call for vengeance must ring worldwide.
Khamenei, a spiritual figure for Shias, was killed at age 86 in strikes on his compound in central Tehran. He will lie in state for three days at the Grand Mosalla, draped in banners with his images and quotes. The bodies of his slain relatives will also be present. Officials expect 15 to 20 million mourners, making it the biggest state funeral in Iran's history.
Public Holidays and Closures
Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad will observe public holidays. Authorities ordered public and private offices in Tehran closed through Monday, with traffic restrictions making much of the city centre inaccessible. Airspace over Tehran will be partially closed starting today and fully closed on Monday.
After ceremonies in Tehran, Khamenei's body will be taken to Iraqi holy cities Najaf and Karbala before burial on 9 July at Imam Reza's shrine in Mashhad, his birthplace. It remains unknown if his son and successor Mojtaba, unseen since becoming supreme leader, will attend the main ceremony. Representatives from about 30 countries are expected, including from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
