Iranians flock to bid farewell to Ayatollah Khamenei amid calls for revenge

A somber procession began Saturday at Tehran's Grand Mosalla mosque, marking the official start of a week-long funeral ceremony for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Thousands of grieving Iranians have flocked to the site, participating in recitations of the national anthem, religious eulogies, and readings from the Quran, as reported by Reuters.

Khamenei, who had been the supreme leader of Iran for 37 years, was reportedly killed on February 28. This date marks the beginning of a series of air strikes launched by Israel and the United States targeting Iran. The atmosphere at the ceremony is charged, with many mourners beating their chests and shouting slogans of "revenge, revenge," according to AFP.

“

We are not here to attend the funeral, but to seek revenge.

The Ayatollah's body lies in state Saturday morning within the expansive Grand Mosalla complex, allowing the public to pay their respects. State television footage, cited by Reuters, shows his coffin draped in the Iranian flag and adorned with his distinctive black turban. Security measures are stringent, guiding the tearful crowds toward the courtyard where the coffin is displayed.

Iranian authorities project a massive turnout, estimating between 15 and 20 million participants in Tehran alone over the coming three days. The report also notes the absence of Khamenei's son and successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, from recent images since he was reportedly wounded in the same attack that killed his father. This event follows a preliminary ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran last month, though negotiations for a final resolution are ongoing amidst sporadic exchanges of fire.

“

Revenge, revenge