Iran Begins Mourning Ceremonies for Supreme Leader Following Reported Assassination

Iran is commencing a series of solemn ceremonies to bid farewell to its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was reportedly killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes that ignited regional conflict. His body arrived at Tehran's Grand Musalla on Friday, setting the stage for a six-day funeral procession beginning Saturday.

Official media reported that millions of Iranians and prominent foreign figures are expected to participate. The head of Iran's Parliament and chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, urged a massive public turnout to avenge Khamenei's assassination. Images showed mourners carrying Khamenei's flag-draped coffin into the Imam Khomeini Grand Musalla, a key site for official ceremonies.

President Ebrahim Raisi and other officials, including Revolutionary Guard Corps commander Ahmad Vahidi, paid their respects. Vahidi's public appearance marked his first since the war began in February, suggesting a heightened security posture following the incident.

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We are planting flowers and watering shrubs in preparation for the farewell ceremony of our martyred guide.

Preparations are underway for the public funeral, which was initially postponed due to the war. Iran and the United States have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire following the signing of a preliminary understanding. Temporary camps have been set up in the capital to accommodate attendees, with citizens offering their homes and local mosques and schools being prepared.

Ayatollah Khamenei, 86, a significant religious figure for many Shia Muslims, was reportedly killed in a strike targeting his residence in central Tehran. His son, Mojtaba, was quickly elected as his successor. The funeral procession will span three days at the Grand Musalla, adorned with images and quotes of Khamenei, alongside family members who also perished in the alleged Feb. 28 strike.

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All the Iranian people... to write a glorious page in the history of Islamic Iran through your presence.