Arabic version: إيران تقيم مراسم ضخمة لتكريم القائد المغتال خامنئي

According to Al Jazeera,

Large-scale public commemorations for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei have commenced in Tehran, with authorities promoting a message of continuity for the Islamic Republic and vengeance for his killing. Khamenei, 86, was targeted in an airstrike at the start of the war with the United States and Israel on February 28, after ruling Iran with absolute power for nearly 37 years.

Thousands gathered inside the Grand Mosalla in Tehran to pay their respects, with red flags, commonly associated with martyrdom but also viewed as a symbol of revenge in Shia Islam, prominently displayed. The ceremonies featured the slogan “We must rise,” accompanied by an image of Khamenei’s clenched fist on a red and black background. His coffin, carried to the funeral site by a lorry, was displayed at the center of the stage and draped in flags, guarded by personnel from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

A heavy security presence continues in the capital, with armored vehicles, heavy machine guns, and snipers visible throughout the areas surrounding the farewell ceremonies. Attendees faced body searches, and electronic devices were confiscated to maintain security. Mojtaba Khamenei, who has not been seen publicly since he took office, will not attend the funeral due to security concerns but was expected to guide the revolution forward.

The commemorations have attracted thousands of people from across Tehran, drawing comparisons to the 1989 funeral of Ruhollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Republic, with authorities expecting similar huge numbers. As temperatures rose to 36 degrees Celsius (97 degrees Fahrenheit), temporary religious service stations provided cooling fans and refreshments to the thousands in attendance.

Khamenei’s remains are expected to be moved through Tehran during the funeral procession on Monday, eventually passing through some of Shia’s holiest sites before burial in his hometown of Mashhad. High-ranking military officials, including IRGC commanders, utilized the event to deliver strong messages against perceived enemies, reinforcing the narrative of resistance and vengeance. Representatives from various countries attended the ceremonies, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister, highlighting the international significance of Khamenei’s legacy.