Iran has concluded a seven-day state funeral for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Iranian authorities claiming that more than 15 million people participated in mourning ceremonies held across Iran and Iraq.
According to Iranian state media, the funeral procession began last Saturday and passed through several major cities, including Tehran, Qom, Najaf and Karbala, before concluding in Mashhad, Khamenei’s hometown.
The final procession reportedly started along Imam Reza Street and ended at the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza (AS), where funeral prayers were led by Khamenei’s eldest son, Hojjatoleslam Seyyed Mostafa Hosseini Khamenei. The ceremonies also honoured members of Khamenei’s family who were reportedly killed alongside him.
Large crowds gathered along the procession route, waving Iranian national flags and red flags while chanting slogans in support of Iran and against the United States and Israel. Iranian state media described the turnout as a symbol of national unity and regional solidarity.
Authorities implemented extensive security measures throughout the week-long funeral, including road closures, flight restrictions and increased deployment of security personnel to manage the large gatherings.
The funeral took place against the backdrop of continued regional tensions. The United States reportedly carried out fresh airstrikes targeting multiple locations inside Iran, saying the operation was aimed at weakening Tehran’s military capabilities and protecting international shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran responded by launching missiles and drones toward several US-allied countries in the region, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Jordan. Air defence systems reportedly intercepted most of the incoming projectiles, although Kuwaiti officials said one person was injured by falling debris.
Iran’s Health Ministry said the latest US strikes killed at least 14 people and injured 78 others, most of them members of the armed forces. Iranian officials also accused the United States of carrying out strikes near the Bushehr nuclear power plant, a claim that US Central Command did not confirm.
The renewed exchange of attacks has heightened concerns that the ceasefire announced last month could collapse. US President Donald Trump accused Iran of targeting commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz and warned of stronger military action if such incidents continued.
Iran rejected the accusations and reiterated that it would respond to any attack on its territory. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also held consultations with regional leaders as diplomatic efforts continued.
Despite the renewed violence, officials indicated that talks aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire are expected to resume following the conclusion of the funeral, with discussions expected to focus on the Strait of Hormuz, regional security and Iran’s nuclear programme.
Editor’s Note: The claims in this report, including those regarding the funeral, casualty figures and military operations, have not been independently verified by multiple international news organizatio.(AGENCIES)
