By Sofiat Adenekan-Abdul
Iran has announced a week-long programme of funeral ceremonies for late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with authorities describing the events as a demonstration of national unity following his death in United States and Israeli strikes.
The funeral programme will begin in Tehran before continuing to the holy cities of Qom and Mashhad. Commemorative events are also planned in the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala. Iranian authorities say millions of mourners are expected to participate, with transport, accommodation and other logistics arranged to support the ceremonies.
Officials say the funeral is intended to reaffirm public support for the Islamic Republic following the conflict that claimed Khamenei’s life. State media quoted religious leaders as describing the expected turnout as a show of national solidarity.
Khamenei’s death has ushered in a new chapter in Iran’s political leadership, with his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, succeeding him as Supreme Leader. The transition comes amid economic challenges, international sanctions and lingering public discontent that have fuelled protests in recent years.
Security has been tightened ahead of the ceremonies, with temporary airspace restrictions and heightened security measures in place. Foreign dignitaries, including officials from Russia and China, are expected to attend the funeral events, which will conclude with Khamenei’s burial in Mashhad.
