More than 3 million mourners flooded the streets of Tehran on Monday for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, in what officials described as the largest public gathering in Iran's history. The procession stretched over 30 kilometers from Tehran University to Azadi Square, as crowds waved black flags and chanted religious slogans.
Unprecedented Outpouring of Grief
State television estimated the crowd at 3.2 million, with many having traveled from across the country. "This is a historic day. We have never seen such a turnout," said Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi, according to state media. The funeral procession began at dawn and continued into the evening, with mourners carrying portraits of Khamenei and copies of the Quran.
Security and Logistics
Authorities deployed over 100,000 security personnel to manage the crowds and prevent incidents. Helicopters showered rose petals over the procession. The government declared a three-day national mourning period, with schools and businesses closed. Khamenei's body was transported on a military truck, guarded by elite Revolutionary Guard members.
International Reactions
World leaders offered condolences, including Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping. The United States expressed "official condolences" through the Swiss embassy, which represents U.S. interests in Iran. However, some human rights groups criticized the lavish funeral, citing Khamenei's role in suppressing dissent.
Succession and Future
The Assembly of Experts is expected to convene within days to select a successor. President Ebrahim Raisi is considered a frontrunner, but the decision remains opaque. Analysts say the transition could impact Iran's nuclear negotiations and regional policies. The funeral concluded with Khamenei's burial at the Behesht-e Zahra cemetery, near the shrine of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
