Iran Begins Week-Long Funeral Rites as Khamenei Lies in State in Tehran

Iran has entered a nationwide period of mourning as the body of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was placed in state in Tehran, marking the start of a week filled with religious processions and official ceremonies across Iran and Iraq.

A Nation Pauses to Mourn Its Longtime Leader

Khamenei, who led the Islamic Republic for 37 years, was killed in February during an airstrike that marked the beginning of a broader conflict. His coffin, along with those of several family members who died alongside him, was unveiled to large crowds of grieving supporters before being moved to a grand hall built in honor of the country’s first Supreme Leader. Officials are organizing transportation, meals, and housing to support the millions expected to take part in the processions.

Funeral Route Spans Iran and Iraq

The ceremonies will move through some of Shia Islam’s most significant religious sites. After events in Tehran, the procession is scheduled to travel to Qom, followed by stops in Iraq’s holy cities, before a final burial expected later in the week near one of Iran’s most revered shrines.

A Moment of Political Significance

The funeral arrives at a sensitive time for Iran’s leadership, following years of economic strain, sanctions, and internal unrest. Foreign officials from several nations attended the ceremonies, reflecting the region’s close political ties to Iran’s leadership.