Iran is preparing to lay its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to rest in his hometown of Mashhad as renewed US military strikes increase tensions across the Middle East.
The burial marks the final stage of a multi day funeral procession that attracted millions of mourners across Iran and Iraq. The procession passed through the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala before reaching Mashhad, where Khamenei will be buried at the Shrine of Imam Reza, one of the most significant religious sites in Iran.
According to Iranian officials, millions of people are expected to attend the funeral in Mashhad. Local authorities estimate that nearly 15 million mourners could gather to pay their final respects. The funeral schedule was adjusted after ceremonies in Iraq continued longer than expected.
The funeral comes at a time of rising regional instability. The United States carried out fresh strikes against Iranian targets following attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The latest military action has raised concerns about the future of the fragile ceasefire that had temporarily reduced hostilities between the two countries.
US President Donald Trump warned that stronger military action could follow if Iran continues attacks on shipping in the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transport routes, making any disruption a major concern for global energy markets.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28 during the opening phase of the conflict that began with US and Israeli airstrikes on Iran. His death ended nearly 37 years of leadership, having served as Iran’s Supreme Leader since 1989.
Iranian authorities hope the large scale funeral ceremonies will demonstrate national unity during a period of political uncertainty and regional conflict. Alongside Khamenei, several members of his family who were killed in the same attack will also be buried in Mashhad, bringing the country’s highest profile funeral ceremony to its conclusion.
