Tehran Hosts Historic Farewell Ceremony for Ayatollah Khamenei Amid Diplomatic Gathering

The ceremony honoring and bidding farewell to the late Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, former Supreme Leader of Iran, commenced at Tehran’s Mosalla with the presence of various foreign political officials, diplomatic envoys, and commanders of Iranian-affiliated military groups. Organizers have stated that this event is one of the largest diplomatic gatherings in Iran in recent years.

Simultaneous Participation of Taliban Representatives and Opposition Figures from Afghanistan

According to figures released by the organizers, the ceremony saw participation from at least eight heads of state, twelve parliamentary leaders, and dozens of official representatives including foreign ministers and ambassadors. Notably, representatives from competing and opposing political factions from Afghanistan were also present in Tehran. Reports indicate that Ahmad Massoud (leader of the National Resistance Front), Muhammad Mohiq (a notable politician), a delegation of Shia scholars from Kabul, members of the Fatemiyoun military group, and an official team representing the Taliban government attended the event concurrently.

Diplomatic Restrictions and Attendance of Iran-Supported Groups

Event organizers confirmed that NATO member countries and Western governments, which have supported Israel in recent regional tensions, were not invited to the ceremony. In contrast, commanders and senior representatives of armed and political groups supported by Iran from Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon, Yemen, and Syria, along with religious figures from Pakistan and some Arab countries, gathered at Tehran’s Mosalla.

Burial Arrangements in Iran and Iraq

According to the announced schedule, public funeral ceremonies will commence tomorrow in Tehran, after which the body will be transferred to Qom. Following requests from certain religious gatherings in Iraq, it has been decided that Ayatollah Khamenei’s body will also be taken to the cities of Najaf and Karbala for mourning. Ultimately, the burial will take place in Mashhad. Iranian state media predict that due to the anticipated influx of foreign pilgrims, this procession could attract a significant crowd. Forecasts suggest that, given the volume of attendees, this funeral could become the largest in history.