Massive Diplomatic Gathering in Tehran for Ayatollah Khamenei’s Memorial Service

The memorial service for the late Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, former leader of Iran, commenced at Tehran’s Mosalla with the attendance of various foreign political officials, diplomatic envoys, and commanders of military groups allied with Iran. Organizers have announced that this event ranks among the largest diplomatic gatherings in Iran in recent years.

Simultaneous Presence of Taliban Representatives and Afghan Opposition Figures in Tehran

According to statistics released by the organizers, at least eight heads of state, twelve parliamentary leaders, and dozens of official envoys, including foreign ministers and ambassadors, participated in the ceremony. Notably, rival political factions from Afghanistan were also present at this event in Tehran. Reports indicate the attendance of Ahmad Massoud (leader of the National Resistance Front), Mohammad Muhaqiq (a prominent political figure), a delegation of Shia scholars from Kabul, members of the Fatemiyoun military group, and an official delegation representing the Taliban.

Diplomatic Restrictions and the Presence of Iran-Backed Groups

Organizers confirmed that NATO member states and Western governments, which have supported Israel during recent regional tensions, were not invited to the event. Conversely, commanders and senior representatives from Iran-supported armed and political groups from Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria, along with religious figures from Pakistan and several Arab nations, gathered at Tehran’s Mosalla.

Funeral Arrangements in Iran and Iraq

According to the announced schedule, public funeral services will commence tomorrow in Tehran, after which the body will be transferred to Qom. Following requests from certain religious assemblies in Iraq, the remains of Ayatollah Khamenei are also set to be taken for burial in the cities of Najaf and Karbala. Eventually, the burial ceremony will take place in the city of Mashhad. Iranian state media anticipates a large turnout, especially with the arrival of foreign pilgrims, suggesting that this funeral could become the largest in history due to the expected influx of attendees.