Iranian state media reported that “millions” gathered in the capital for the funeral procession of Khamenei , which followed a two-day public farewell ceremony. Authorities described it as potentially the largest public gathering in the country’s modern history. The route stretched roughly 10 kilometers through central Tehran, passing major squares and arteries including Damavand Street, Imam Hussein Square, Enqelab Square, Azadi Square, and ending near Mehrabad Airport.
Organizers said the procession would last between 10 and 12 hours. The coffin, carried through densely packed crowds, is later expected to continue onward for additional ceremonies in Qom, Karbala, Najaf, and Mashhad in the coming days.
Images from the capital showed mourners carrying red flags and banners invoking vengeance, including slogans such as “Ya Latharat al-Hussein” and “Ya Latharat al-Khamenei”, symbols rooted in Shiite tradition tied to the Battle of Karbala. Some demonstrators also displayed explicitly anti-US and anti-Israel messages, including signs calling for retaliation and referencing US President Donald Trump and Israeli leaders.
Iranian officials used the funeral to reinforce political messaging about resistance and continuity. Army Chief Major General Amir Hatami said the country would not abandon its pursuit of accountability.
