Millions of mourners are anticipated to gather in the streets of Iran and Iraq this week to commemorate the late former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. Officials are expecting this funeral to be the largest in modern history, spanning five cities across two nations. Despite economic challenges and recent conflicts, Iranian leaders are orchestrating an elaborate week-long farewell to honor Khamenei.
The grand funeral coincides with celebrations for the 250th anniversary of US Independence Day, adding a layer of political significance to the event. Khamenei, known for his defiance and skepticism towards the West during his 37-year rule, will be honored through processions in three Iranian cities and two sacred sites in Iraq. This display of reverence aims to show supporters that Khamenei’s legacy endures even in death.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s parliamentary speaker and chief negotiator with the US, emphasized the nation’s resilience and determination to uphold Khamenei’s legacy. The funeral’s inclusion of Iraq underscores Iran’s influence within the broader Shiite Muslim community, extending its reach beyond national borders.
Sina Toossi, a senior nonresident fellow at the Centre for International Policy, noted that Khamenei’s assassination has elevated his symbolic power, transforming him into a martyr revered by Shia communities worldwide. This monumental event is set to surpass previous large-scale funerals in Iran, such as those of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini and Qassem Soleimani.
Tehran is bracing for an influx of mourners as preparations are made for an extensive, multi-city state funeral for Ayatollah Khamenei. The event will commence at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla mosque complex, with elaborate measures put in place to manage the large crowds and ensure their comfort amidst soaring temperatures.
The funeral’s magnitude will virtually halt activities in Tehran, with emergency services implementing a massive response to address potential health crises. Extensive medical resources, including ambulances, helicopters, and shelters, have been mobilized to handle the expected turnout. The Ayatollah’s final journey will span multiple days and cross borders before his burial.
