Body of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei arrives in Iraq for funeral procession

The remains of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei arrived at Najaf International Airport in Iraq on Tuesday night, marking a significant step in the six-day public funeral ceremonies that began on Saturday. Khamenei, who was killed in "US-Israeli strikes" during the ongoing Middle East war, is set to be buried on Thursday in his hometown of Mashhad, located in northeastern Iran.

Iraqi state television broadcast the arrival of the Mahan Air flight carrying Khamenei's coffin. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was present at the airport, having arrived shortly before to attend the official Iraqi ceremony. He was joined by Iraqi officials and senior politicians, including Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, and Iranian commander Esmail Qaani, head of the Quds Force. The airport was adorned with red carpets, large posters of Islamic calligraphy, and a portrait of the late leader.

The Iraqi government declared Wednesday a public holiday to accommodate the funeral processions. These events are scheduled to commence at 6:00 AM in the holy city of Najaf, with mourners beginning to arrive at least a day in advance. A six-kilometer procession is planned, culminating at the shrine of Imam Ali, the Prophet Mohammed's son-in-law and the first Shia Imam. Najaf's main streets are decorated with banners and portraits of Khamenei.

Mourners expressed their devotion, with Mohammed al-Bayati, 30, traveling for hours to attend. He stated, "This is an opportunity that cannot be missed," and that he came to attend "the funeral of the figure who challenged the power of America and Israel." Following the ceremonies in Najaf, Khamenei's body will be transported to Karbala for another procession ending at the shrines of Imam Hussein and his brother Abbas.

Related news items mentioned include the UAE's announcement of $30 million in humanitarian aid for Sudan and Hamas's dissolution of its Gaza governing body. A separate report also noted that millions gathered as Khamenei's funeral procession began in Iran.

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This is an opportunity that cannot be missed. I came to attend the funeral of the figure who challenged the power of America and Israel.