Tehran Hosts Historic Farewell Ceremony for Ayatollah Khamenei Amidst Diplomatic Gathering

The farewell ceremony for the late Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, former leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, commenced at Tehran’s Mosalla with the participation of various foreign political figures, diplomatic envoys, and commanders of military groups allied with Iran. Organizers have noted that this event is one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in Iran in recent years.

Unexpected Presence of Taliban Representatives and Afghan Opposition Figures in Tehran

According to statistics released by organizers, at least eight heads of state, twelve parliamentary leaders, and dozens of formal representatives including foreign ministers and ambassadors attended the event. A notable aspect of the ceremony was the simultaneous presence of rival and opposition political factions from Afghanistan in Tehran. Reports indicate that figures such as Ahmad Massoud (leader of the National Resistance Front), Mohammad Mohaghegh (a prominent political figure), a delegation of Shiite scholars from Kabul, members of the Fatemiyoun military group, and an official delegation representing the Taliban government were all present at the same time.

Diplomatic Restrictions and Attendance of Iran-Supported Groups

Officials from the event’s organizing committee confirmed that representatives from NATO countries and Western governments, which have supported Israel in recent regional tensions, were not invited to the ceremony. In contrast, high-ranking commanders and representatives from Iran-backed armed and political groups from Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria were present, along with religious figures from Pakistan and several Arab nations.

Funeral Arrangements in Iran and Iraq

According to the announced schedule, public mourning will begin tomorrow in Tehran, after which the body will be transferred to Qom. Following requests made by various religious organizations in Iraq, the remains of Ayatollah Khamenei will also be transported to the cities of Najaf and Karbala for further ceremonies. Ultimately, the burial will take place in Mashhad. Iranian state media predict that with the arrival of foreign mourners, this procession will attract a large crowd. Predictions suggest that, given the expected influx of attendees, this event could become the largest funeral procession in history.