Post by : Badri Ariffin

Tehran has embarked on a week-long state funeral for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Thousands of mourners, senior clerics, officials, and foreign dignitaries gathered on Friday to bid farewell.

Khamenei, who led Iran for 37 years, fell victim to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes during a four-month war in February. His death stands as a pivotal moment in the annals of the Islamic Republic.

His body was displayed in a grand prayer hall in Tehran, where crowds continuously arrived to offer prayers and condolences. Iranian authorities are framing the funeral as a display of public backing for the theocratic regime.

Planned Funeral Activities Throughout the Week

A series of funeral events are scheduled for the week.

Khamenei's coffin is set to travel to the holy city of Qom, followed by ceremonies in the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Kerbala. It is anticipated that he will be interred in Mashhad on Thursday, near Iran's holiest pilgrimage shrine.

The burial's postponement was due to security concerns during the ongoing conflict. Traditionally, Islamic burials occur within a day of death.

Coffin Presented to Thousands of Attendees

On Thursday evening, Khamenei's coffin was revealed to an emotional crowd. Attendees wept, beat their chests in mourning, and showered the coffin with flowers.

On Friday, the coffins of Khamenei and several family members killed alongside him were placed in the main prayer hall dedicated to Iran's inaugural Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

Khamenei's coffin bore a black turban, reflecting a clerical lineage linked to the Prophet Mohammed, while a chequered scarf symbolizing revolutionary ideals adorned it.

Significant Timing for Iran's Leadership

This funeral arrives at a crucial juncture for Iran.

The clerical elite, bolstered by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), perceive their survival amid warfare as a monumental success against U.S. and Israeli threats.

However, despite governmental rhetoric promoting unity, Iran grapples with persistent political and economic strife.

Experts suggest diminishing public support for the clerical regime. Newly appointed Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's son, has not been seen in recent public appearances after reportedly sustaining injuries in the airstrike.

Iran has also struggled under prolonged sanctions, with widespread protests being met with escalated security measures, reportedly resulting in numerous fatalities during January demonstrations.

In response, Iranian authorities have orchestrated extensive funeral events aimed at mobilizing masses across the nation.

Enhanced Security Measures in Tehran

Security protocols were significantly tightened in Tehran for Friday's services.

Military and police units were deployed along key thoroughfares, while members of the Basij volunteer force monitored the streets on motorcycles. Iran issued warnings to both the United States and Israel against potential attacks during the mourning period.

Upon arrival, the coffins were ceremoniously carried overhead by mourners before being situated on a white step platform within the prayer hall, encircled by national flags and black mourning banners.

Attendance of Foreign Dignitaries and Allies

The funeral drew several foreign representatives to Tehran.

Delegations from Russia and China were anticipated, alongside senior political figures from Iraq, Armenia, and Pakistan.

Family members of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and commander Imad Mughniyeh, both close allies of Iran who lost their lives in Israeli strikes, also attended.

Iran's President, Parliament Speaker, Foreign Minister, and other officials participated in the prayer services with religious leaders.

Mourning Practices Reflecting Shi'ite Traditions

The Supreme Leader's role intertwines political power with a religious significance as the earthly representation of Shi'ite Islam's 12th Imam.

Khamenei's death at the hands of enemies amplifies the symbolism associated with martyrdom in Shi'ite beliefs.

Black mourning flags can be seen across Iranian cities, evoking the martyrdom of Imam Hossein during the seventh century.

During vigils in central Tehran, attendees expressed sorrow through cries, prayers, and chants, while volunteers handed out posters of the late leader.

Eighteen-year-old student Mobina Razaaghi, attending the funeral with classmates from Isfahan, expressed, "Only through avenging his blood and seeking justice can we alleviate the people's sorrow."

Coffins of Family Members Displayed

Alongside Khamenei's coffin were coffins of several of his family members, all victims of the same attack.

They included his daughter, son-in-law, baby granddaughter, and the spouse of his son, Mojtaba Khamenei.

Funeral Procession to Extend Across Iran and Iraq

Iran has coordinated transport and lodging for attendees expected at the ceremonies.

Hotels are offering significant discounts, while schools, mosques, and sports complexes prepare to accommodate visitors. Transportation services have been modified to facilitate attendance.

Following a major procession in central Tehran on Monday, Khamenei's remains will proceed to Qom on Tuesday.

The ceremonies will then carry on in the Iraqi shrine cities of Najaf and Kerbala on Wednesday, featuring participation from regional Shi'ite allies.

The week will culminate with Khamenei's burial in Mashhad on Thursday, near the revered tomb of Imam Reza.

#Global News #Iran News #Global Updates #World News