Thousands of mourners filled the streets of Tehran on Thursday for the funeral of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who died earlier this week at the age of 87. The massive procession wound through the capital as state television showed crowds carrying portraits of Khamenei and chanting religious slogans.
Funeral Procession Draws Massive Crowds
The funeral began at Tehran University, where Khamenei's body was displayed in a simple wooden casket draped in the Iranian flag. Mourners, many dressed in black and beating their chests in grief, pushed against security barriers to catch a glimpse. State media estimated the crowd at over 2 million, though independent verification was not possible.
Among the attendees were high-ranking officials, including President Ebrahim Raisi and military commanders. The ceremony included prayers led by a senior cleric, followed by a procession to the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery, where Khamenei was buried next to his predecessor, Ruhollah Khomeini.
Khamenei's Legacy and Impact
Khamenei served as Supreme Leader for 35 years, making him the longest-serving head of state in the Middle East. His rule was marked by a consolidation of power, a hardline stance against the West, and a fierce opposition to Israel. Under his leadership, Iran expanded its influence in the region through proxy forces and advanced its nuclear program.
According to political analyst Dr. Fatemeh Sadeghi of Tehran University, "Khamenei's death marks the end of an era. He was the architect of the Islamic Republic's post-war identity, and his absence will create a power vacuum that could reshape Iranian politics."
International Reactions
World leaders reacted to Khamenei's death with a mix of condolences and criticism. The United States offered no official statement, while European Union officials expressed hope for a more moderate Iranian leadership. Israel's Prime Minister warned of continued threats from Iran, regardless of the leadership change.
In Iran, a five-day mourning period has been declared, with flags at half-mast. The succession process is underway, with the Assembly of Experts expected to name a new Supreme Leader in the coming weeks.
