Khamenei funeral begins: Millions gather as Iran says goodbye
By: Abudu Olalekan
It started Saturday. Iran saying goodbye to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. And the crowds? They’re huge, expecting millions.
Khamenei ran Iran for 35 years, died at 86 on February 28 – first day of the US-Israeli war with Iran.
Six days of ceremonies planned. And everyone’s watching for Mojtaba, his son and the new supreme leader. Named a week after his father’s death but hasn’t been seen in public yet.
At Tehran’s Grand Mosalla, thousands are waiting. Red banners in hand – that’s the symbol of vengeance. Chants of “Death to America” and “Revenge” echoing through the air.
Reza, a professor, said they promised to stand by Khamenei to the end. “We said we’d die for him,” he told AFP. “But in the end, he’s the one who died for us.”
Javad, a factory worker, never got to see Khamenei up close. Today he’s there to say goodbye.
Security is tight, roads blocked and airspace closed. Biggest event in Iran since Khomeini’s funeral back in ’89.
Here’s the plan for the coffin, it stays in Tehran until Monday. Then goes to Qom, then to holy sites in Iraq, and finally burial in Mashhad on Thursday.
Top officials were there. Some in tears. Even Vahidi, the new head of Revolutionary Guards, showed up – first time since the strikes that killed Khamenei.
International guests? Pakistani PM, Russia’s Medvedev, reps from Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Taliban.
The fighting with US and Israel is on pause. But officials are warning they’re ready to start up again if needed.
Ghalibaf said the call for vengeance needs to be heard worldwide. Army chief Hatami promised Israel and US would pay.
With temps over 35C and massive crowds, safety is a concern. They’re spraying water to cool people down and broadcasting safety tips.
And Tehran? Normally packed streets are strangely quiet today.
Olalekan A. Abudu is a seasoned and dedicated News Journalist at REPORTERS ROOM, with over eight years of experience. He specializes in politics, climate change, health, and education, while also covering security, economic, and judicial issues. Committed to accuracy and balanced reporting, Olalekan exemplifies the principles of public-interest journalism.
