Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran, will be laid to rest on July 9 following his death in an attack attributed to the United States and Israel. Following ceremonies in the holy city of Qom, his remains were received by Iraqi officials and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian in Najaf. The funeral procession is scheduled to conclude in his birthplace of Mashhad, Iran.
The Global Response to the Death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Indonesia’s fifth president and current PDIP Chairwoman, Megawati Soekarnoputri, issued a formal statement of condolence regarding the death of Khamenei. According to a video broadcast on Iranian television, Megawati described the loss as a significant blow not only to the Iranian nation but to those globally who advocate for sovereignty and justice.
Megawati characterized Khamenei as more than a religious or political figure, describing him as a pejuang (fighter) who was patriotic. She noted that she perceived a “gema perjuangan” (echo of struggle) in Khamenei that reminded her of the leadership style of her father, Bung Karno.
“Wafatnya Yang Mulia Ayatollah Ali Khamenei bukan hanya kehilangan besar bagi bangsa Iran, tetapi juga telah mengguncang hati banyak orang yang mencintai keadilan, kedaulatan bangsa dan kemanusiaan di seluruh penjuru dunia,” stated Megawati in her address to the Iranian government.
How the Funeral Procession is Unfolding
The funeral proceedings have been marked by high-level security and large public gatherings. On Tuesday, July 7, the body of the late leader was transported to Najaf, Iraq. Iraqi authorities designated Wednesday, July 8, as a national holiday to observe the funeral rites.
Crowds were reported pushing to touch the casket as it was moved by truck toward the shrine of Imam Ali. Following prayers led by dozens of clerics at the site, the procession continued toward the city of Karbala. The final burial is set for Thursday, July 9, in the northeastern Iranian city of Mashhad.
Historical Ties Between Indonesia and Iran
Megawati reflected on her 2004 state visit to Tehran, during which she held a private meeting with the Ayatollah. She described him as a figure who possessed a pancaran kharisma yang sangat kuat (very strong radiance of charisma) while remaining gentle in his personal demeanor.
During their discussions, the two leaders reportedly touched upon the significance of the Pancasila and the “Bandung Spirit”. According to Megawati, these concepts served as reference points for Khamenei in his vision for an independent and dignified Iran.
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Diplomatic Perspectives on Conflict Resolution
In her tribute, Megawati reiterated her stance on international relations. She emphasized that she favors resolving geopolitical conflicts through fair dialogue and adherence to international law rather than through unilateral military aggression.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where will Ayatollah Ali Khamenei be buried? The final funeral procession and burial will take place in his hometown of Mashhad, Iran, on July 9.
- Who offered official condolences from Indonesia? Megawati Soekarnoputri, the fifth President of Indonesia and Chairwoman of PDIP, sent a formal video message of condolence to the Iranian government.
- Why was there a national holiday in Iraq? Iraqi authorities declared Wednesday, July 8, a national holiday to facilitate the funeral proceedings held in Najaf.
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