More than four months after the death of Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the country has begun what officials are calling the “funeral of the century.”
Officials are calling it the “funeral of the century.”
Why now? Authorities say the week-long ceremonies are meant to honor the late leader.
They are also meant to showcase national unity during a fragile ceasefire with the United States.
Khamenei’s body will lie in state at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla.
A series of funeral processions across Iran and Iraq will end with his burial next Thursday in his hometown of Mashhad.
Officials expect between 12 and 20 million people to take part, prompting widespread road closures, office shutdowns, and airspace restrictions.
The ceremonies will also pass through the holy cities of Qom, Najaf, and Karbala, underscoring Khamenei’s influence across the Shia Muslim world.
Funeral Draws Global Attention
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the funeral as having “symbolic importance,” highlighting its regional and political significance.
Questions remain, however. Will Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, make a public appearance?
And who will lead the funeral prayers—a role carrying both religious and political weight in Shia tradition?
International dignitaries, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, are expected to attend.
Commemorations will continue for 40 days after the burial, ensuring Khamenei’s legacy remains firmly in the spotlight.
In Iran, even a farewell can send a powerful political message.
