Iran has begun a six-day state funeral for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in Tehran, with millions of mourners expected to participate in one of the country’s largest public ceremonies in decades.
The funeral commenced at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla, where senior Iranian leaders, military commanders, religious figures, and foreign dignitaries paid their final respects to the late leader. Extensive security and traffic arrangements have been put in place across the capital for the ceremonies. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Representatives from several countries, including India, Russia, China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, are attending the funeral. India is being represented by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt. Gen. Syed Ata Hasnain (Retd.). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
The funeral procession will continue over the coming days through key religious centres before concluding with Ayatollah Khamenei’s burial in the holy city of Mashhad on July 9. Authorities have also announced a 40-day public mourning period following the burial. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for more than three decades, was killed in Israeli and U.S. airstrikes on February 28. Iranian authorities expect the funeral to serve as a major display of national unity and resilience amid continuing regional tensions. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
