Iran prepares for dayslong funeral for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iran is gearing up for an extensive, dayslong funeral procession for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who passed away at the age of 86. Banners across Tehran are calling on citizens to rally in support of the Islamic Republic, anticipating massive public turnout.

Millions are expected to flood the capital's streets starting Saturday, in scenes reminiscent of the 1989 funeral for Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This large-scale public display is seen as a potential boost for the government, particularly as it navigates sensitive negotiations with the United States over ending the war and faces lingering concerns about possible Israeli military action.

Senior figures, including a prominent general from the Revolutionary Guard and other top officials, are expected to attend, alongside foreign dignitaries, aiming to project an image of national unity and strength. Khamenei's coffin is displayed at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, near family members who also perished in recent Israeli and U.S. airstrikes. Volunteers are preparing for the large crowds, with one stating, "We will continue our policy of pursuing independence, and decisions will be made inside the country, and the people will decide their own fate."

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As long as these people, who are chosen (by God), are on the field, we will definitely continue the same 'no to humiliation' policy that was founded by the Islamic Republic. We will continue our policy of pursuing independence, and decisions will be made inside the country, and the people will decide their own fate.