Thousands gathered in Tehran for the funeral procession of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a solemn moment in the nation’s recent history. The week-long journey began with massive crowds lining the streets, waving national flags and holding portraits of the late leader. His death in February during coordinated U.S.-Israeli air strikes triggered widespread grief across the country and intensified regional tensions. The state-organized mourning events reflect deep institutional reverence for the late figure, who held power for over three decades.
The funeral takes place amid a fragile ceasefire between Iran and the United States, adding layers of political significance to the proceedings. As Iran faces an uncertain leadership transition, the events are seen as a critical juncture in shaping the country's future direction. Public displays of loyalty underscore the enduring influence of the previous regime, even as new challenges emerge on both domestic and international fronts.