On Saturday, an elaborate state funeral took place in Tehran for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former supreme leader of Iran. Khamenei was killed during U.S.-Israeli attacks, marking an end to his decades-long rule.
Thousands of mourners assembled at the Grand Mosalla mosque from the early hours. This was the beginning of a series of public ceremonies expected to draw millions as Khamenei’s body travels through different cities. The scene was somber, with many expressing deep grief. The caskets, draped in Iranian flags, included those of his family members who died alongside him, like his daughter and grandchildren.
Iran faces significant turmoil. Recent antigovernment protests were met with severe crackdowns. The nation is also enduring a war with the United States and Israel. Israeli airstrikes on the first day of conflict claimed the lives of Khamenei and other key Iranian leaders.
The funeral has sparked mixed reactions among Iranians. While some mourn the leader, others express discontent over the funeral’s scale and cost. Khamenei ruled for 37 years, a period marked by strict authoritarian governance and neglect of economic issues.
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