Huge Crowds Mass in Tehran for Ayatollah's State Funeral Amid Outpouring of Grief and Mourning
Iranians have begun six days of public mourning ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. Huge crowds gathered in Tehran to pay their respects at an elaborate state funeral for the former supreme leader. Tens of thousands of people arrived at the Grand Mosalla mosque at dawn, with millions expected to participate as the funeral procession travels to cities across the country.
The ceremony featured the caskets of Ayatollah Khamenei and several family members, including his daughter and two grandchildren, who were also killed in the attack. The caskets were placed atop a stage, encased in glass and draped in Iranian flags. The somber mood was palpable, with many supporters overcome with emotion at the sight of the caskets.
The funeral comes at a turbulent time for Iran, which has faced huge antigovernment protests, a brutal government crackdown, and months of war with the US and Israel. Ayatollah Khamenei's death has sparked mixed reactions, with many mourning his loss while others view the expensive funeral program with anger, citing his 37-year authoritarian rule and the country's economic mismanagement and corruption.
The ceremony featured the caskets of Ayatollah Khamenei and several family members, including his daughter and two grandchildren, who were also killed in the attack. The caskets were placed atop a stage, encased in glass and draped in Iranian flags. The somber mood was palpable, with many supporters overcome with emotion at the sight of the caskets.
The funeral comes at a turbulent time for Iran, which has faced huge antigovernment protests, a brutal government crackdown, and months of war with the US and Israel. Ayatollah Khamenei's death has sparked mixed reactions, with many mourning his loss while others view the expensive funeral program with anger, citing his 37-year authoritarian rule and the country's economic mismanagement and corruption.
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