Iran: Khamenei's funeral set to be massive display of power

The body of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei arrived in Tehran on Friday for a funeral ceremony at the Mosalla prayer grounds, with authorities anticipating a massive turnout of 15 to 20 million mourners. This figure, if realized, would make it the largest funeral in Iran's history.

Officials have called for widespread public participation, with Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stating that the Iranian people's demand for retribution should echo worldwide. He described the funeral as one of the most significant moments in Iran's history, while a prominent cleric from Qom suggested the large attendance would serve as a de facto referendum for the Islamic Republic.

Over 30 countries are expected to send representatives, including Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, China, Afghanistan, and Iran's Caucasus neighbors. Russia will be represented by former President Dmitry Medvedev. Khamenei's body will lie in state for three days, with his image and quotes adorning the venue. His deceased relatives' bodies will also be displayed.

Further ceremonies are scheduled in Iraq, with events in Baghdad, Najaf, and Karbala on Wednesday before the burial on July 9 at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, Khamenei's birthplace. Public holidays have been declared in Tehran and other cities, and airspace will be partially and then fully closed. Khamenei, who died at 86, was the second Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, holding the position for decades after succeeding Ruhollah Khomeini.