Post by : Badri Ariffin

On Tuesday, the coffin of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, reached Najaf, Iraq, after solemn funeral rituals had taken place in Iran. This event marks a crucial phase in a multi-day mourning process following Khamenei’s passing on February 28 due to a U.S.-Israeli strike.

Upon its arrival at Najaf International Airport, Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi and other high-ranking officials were present to receive the coffin. As reported by Iraqi state media, official funeral observances and a significant public procession are scheduled to take place in the city.

Najaf: A City of Religious Significance

Najaf is revered in Shi'ite Islam as a sacred site. It houses the tomb of Imam Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of Prophet Mohammad, attracting Shi'ite Muslims globally.

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian is also in Najaf to attend the ceremonial observances.

Public Mourning Events Set to Begin

After the official reception at the airport, a gathering of Iraqi political leaders and Shi'ite clerics joined the rites as preparations were made for a public procession throughout Najaf.

A substantial turnout of mourners is anticipated for the public mourning events planned for Wednesday.

Funeral Procession Expands Across the Region

The state-organized funeral events in Iran commenced on Friday, reflecting both a religious commemoration and a strong symbolic message of continuity from the Islamic Republic after the death of its long-serving leader.

The procession initially traveled from Tehran to Qom, a Shi'ite holy city, before crossing into Iraq to arrive in Najaf.

Heightened Security Measures in Najaf

In anticipation of the coffin's arrival, Iraqi authorities enhanced security protocols throughout Najaf as numerous mourners journeyed from various regions of Iraq and nearby countries to partake in the ceremonies.

Following the events in Najaf, the procession is set to proceed to Karbala, a venerated shrine city in Iraq, before returning to Iran where Khamenei will be interred in Mashhad later this week.

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