Millions of mourners flooded the streets of Tehran on Monday for the funeral procession of Iran's assassinated supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, who was killed by Israeli bombs in February. The throng, estimated in the millions by state media, moved from Revolution Square to Azadi Square after a two-day funeral at the Grand Mosalla mosque.
Massive Turnout and Chants
Mourners dressed in black carried flags proclaiming 'We will rise,' along with pictures of Khamenei and the Iranian flag. Chants of 'Mourning is mourning today, mourning day is today. Martyr Khamenei is before God today' echoed through the crowd. The Tehran metro was packed as people joined the march, which was expected to last 10 to 12 hours.
Political Context and Reactions
The funeral comes seven months after widespread street protests that saw thousands killed by security forces. Many view the assembly as a response to the war launched by Donald Trump in February. At Sunday's funeral, 'Kill Trump' was chalked on the stage, reflecting a desire for revenge.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian praised the mourners, saying, 'The world sees the truth.' He rejected Trump's claim of 'fake tears,' stating, 'These tears that flow from the eyes of girls, men, and children is not something that can be created by order.'
Leadership Presence and Security
The entire Iranian leadership attended Sunday's prayer, except the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late leader, due to safety concerns. His three grieving brothers were present. Despite the massive crowds, no casualties were reported, a feat of organization by state authorities and volunteer civic army.
More than 300 foreign journalists were granted rare visas to cover the event. Pezeshkian accused Israel of committing 'all the crimes that are taking place in the region with the support of the United States and European countries.'
