A funeral procession for Iran’s slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, moved through the streets of Tehran on Monday. The 86-year-old leader was killed in a February 28 airstrike by the U.S. and Israel that triggered a war with Iran. The funeral events have placed diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran on pause.
Large numbers of Iranian military and police kept crowds from getting too close to the convoy. Mourners lined the route, where some openly wept while others chanted “death to America” and “death to Israel.” A Reuters photograph captured at least one effigy of President Donald Trump being hanged during the procession.
Why was the funeral route modified?
Organizers modified the original funeral route because the crowds were too large. They noted that the original path would have taken hours to complete. Many roads in downtown Tehran remained blocked as people arrived via car, motorcycle, and public transportation to see the leader.
Misted water was sprayed over the crowds to provide relief from scorching summer temperatures. Red, white, and green Islamic Republic flags and red banners calling for revenge lined the streets.
Who has been named the new supreme leader?
Mojtaba Khamenei has been named supreme leader of Iran. However, he has not appeared in public or issued an audio statement since the war began, according to reports.
The coffin carried on the truck included Khamenei and family members also killed in the February 28 airstrike. Among those killed was his 14-month-old granddaughter, Zahra Golpayegani. The truck was decorated with latticework typical of the shrine of a religious leader.
What is the current status of the conflict?
The conflict remains active following the airstrike that ended Khamenei’s nearly four-decade rule. A member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps told NBC News at the procession that the war would not be “over for us” until Khamenei’s death is avenged.
In the Oval Office on Monday, President Donald Trump stated that the Iranian military has been destroyed. “Iran, we’re doing actually equally as well, we’re just not getting the kind of coverage that we should, but we have eviscerated them militarily, and the bottom line is our country is strong,” Trump said.
Where will the procession go next?
After lying in state at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla for three days, the coffin is scheduled to travel to the Iranian holy city of Qom. Following the visit to Qom, the remains are expected to be taken to Iraq to visit Shiite holy sites.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current supreme leader of Iran?
Mojtaba Khamenei has been named supreme leader, though he has not yet appeared in public or issued a statement since the war began.
When did the airstrike that killed Ayatollah Ali Khamenei occur?
The airstrike occurred on February 28.
Where is the coffin being taken after the Tehran procession?
The coffin is scheduled to go to the holy city of Qom and then to Iraq to visit Shiite holy sites.
How might the transition to Mojtaba Khamenei impact the ongoing conflict?
