Over 10 million people, including representatives from more than 100 countries, converged on Tehran for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed along with his family at the onset of the US-Israel war on Iran, according to Al Jazeera. The massive gathering at Tehran's Grand Mosalla underscored the profound impact of his death on the nation and the region.
Massive Crowds and International Representation
Iran's Embassy in India shared visuals on social media showing vast crowds at the Grand Mosalla paying their final respects. The funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei have begun, the embassy posted. The turnout is projected to be the largest since Iranians protested living conditions in December and January, as per the New York Post.
Officials, described as "afraid and weak" by experts, had delayed services for months due to security concerns. The ceremonies coincide with July 4th celebrations in the United States, as both countries appear to edge toward peace.
Trump Announces Temporary Ceasefire for Funeral
Earlier, while delivering remarks at Mount Rushmore, US President Donald Trump stated he would not bomb Iran for a week to allow the funeral to proceed. "We knocked the hell out of Iran, they're dying to settle. They want to settle so badly. We gave them a week off for a funeral because we're nice people," Trump said.
India Represented at the Ceremony
Governor of Bihar Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita represented India at the funeral. Hasnain posted on X: "Represented India at the funeral ceremony of His Eminence Grand Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei in Tehran today, along with MoS External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. Also extended deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the recent conflict."
Funeral Procession and Historical Context
State funeral services were set to begin in the prayer hall of Imam Khomeini, who founded the Islamic Republic in 1979, before a funeral procession departs on July 6. The New York Post noted that scores of deaths were reported in stampedes at Khomeini's 1989 funeral, where as many as 10 million people also gathered.
