Massive Mourning Procession for Ayatollah Khamenei in Tehran

Iran has begun a significant funeral procession for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, attracting tens of thousands of mourners in Tehran. The event, marked by emotional tributes and calls for revenge against U.S. and Israeli leaders, is expected to be one of the largest public gatherings in the country's history. As the procession unfolds, the atmosphere is charged with grief and anger, reflecting the deep sentiments of the Iranian populace. The funeral will last for several hours, culminating in Khamenei's burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. This event highlights the complex political landscape in the region and the profound impact of Khamenei's leadership.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 6, 2026, 12:40 IST

Tehran's Streets Filled with Mourners

On Monday, Iran commenced the funeral procession for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, drawing tens of thousands of mourners who gathered to pay their respects. Khamenei's coffin, draped in the national flag and accompanied by the coffins of family members who perished in a February 28 airstrike amid the ongoing conflict involving Israel and the United States, was transported through the city on a specially adorned truck. Emotional crowds reached out to touch the grating of the truck, while some tossed scarves and other items, a gesture considered a blessing in Iran. To alleviate the heat, attendants sprayed misted water over the gathered crowds.

The procession, overseen by Revolutionary Guard General Hasan Hasanzsdeh, is set to take the coffins through Tehran towards Mehrabad International Airport, a journey expected to last 12 hours. The Iranian government anticipates significant public turnout to demonstrate support for the regime, with tens of thousands already assembling in various squares across the capital, waving flags and banners in honor of Khamenei. In preparation for the mourning period, which began on Saturday and will conclude on Thursday with Khamenei's burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, authorities have closed streets and restricted airspace.

Calls for Retaliation Emerge

As the funeral procession continues, there have been escalating threats from mourners seeking vengeance for Khamenei’s death. Many attendees have displayed signs demanding the assassination of U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with one effigy of Trump reportedly being hanged along the route. Mourner Fatima Hassan expressed her sentiments, stating, “Today, as we gather for our leader's funeral, it’s a very difficult day. We are not here to bid farewell; we are here for revenge. And we will take revenge.” The funeral is anticipated to be one of the largest public gatherings in Iran's modern history, lasting between 10 to 12 hours.