Iran Holds Historic Funeral for Slain Leader Khamenei

Iran has initiated a week-long funeral for the slain supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed four months ago in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike. The ceremony, taking place at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, is expected to attract 15 to 20 million mourners, making it the largest state funeral in Iran's history.

The body of the 86-year-old leader, who ruled Iran for 37 years, will be displayed alongside that of his 14-month-old granddaughter, who was also killed in the strike on February 28. The event has prompted significant preparations, including accommodations for attendees in hotels, schools, and sports halls, as well as diversions in the rail network.

Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has called for a massive turnout, emphasizing a national call for vengeance. The funeral is delayed due to wartime risks, with Iran warning the U.S. and Israel against attacks during the ceremonies.

Delegates from nearly 100 countries are expected to attend, including Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and representatives from China and Russia.