Tehran: Foreign leaders and official delegations from various regions arrived in Tehran to pay homage to the slain former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei during the commencement of his funeral processions. The ceremony took place at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla, a significant venue in the Iranian capital designated for large-scale religious and state ceremonies.
According to Anadolu Agency, Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli attack on February 28, which led to nearly three weeks of conflict before a ceasefire was achieved through a US-Iran memorandum facilitated by regional mediators. The attack heightened tensions across the Middle East.
Prominent figures attending the ceremony included Dmitry Medvedev, Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz, Iraqi President Nizar Amidi, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, among others. Senior Arab officials from countries like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen also marked their presence at the solemn event.
Central Asian leaders, Georgian President Mikheil Kavelashvili, Belarusian House of Representatives Speaker Igor Sergeyenko, and other international representatives joined the memorial. The event also saw participation from African and Latin American dignitaries, highlighting the global impact of Khamenei's leadership.
Iranian media reported the attendance of various delegations from Myanmar, Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, and other regional groups, emphasizing the widespread respect for Khamenei. The ceremony underscored the geopolitical significance of Iran and the late leader's influence.
Funeral arrangements detailed that public farewell ceremonies are planned for July 4 and 5, with the main funeral procession scheduled for July 6 in Tehran. The rites will proceed to Qom and then to Iraq, concluding with the final ceremony on July 9 at the Imam Ali Reza Shrine in Mashhad.
The ongoing commemorations reflect the deep political and religious ties Khamenei fostered during his leadership, with global figures gathering to honor his legacy.