TEHRAN saw massive crowds Saturday as thousands of Iranians began nearly a week of mourning for late supreme leader,Ali Khamenei. Ceremonies,meant to show unity and defiance against West after a recent conflict,kicked off at Grand Mosalla religious complex.
Mourners,wearing black and waving red flags of vengeance,packed the venue,which featured a huge portrait of Khamenei. The 86-year-old leader,who had ruled Iran since 1989, was killed with family members in an Israeli airstrike on February 28. A pivotal moment for the Islamic Republic.
As public ceremonies unfolded,absence of Khamenei's son and successor, Mojtaba Khamenei,raised eyebrows . He's been unseen since being named next leader,whereabouts unclear . Surviving officials like Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf,parliament speaker,publicly mourned,urging citizens to join in.
Chants of "death to America" and revenge echoed through the complex. Mohammad Mirsalehi, cleric, called Khamenei a father figure, saying, "With his passing,we have all been left orphaned." An 18-year-old student, Hamidreza Shabani, shared vengeance sentiments, stressing need to avenge leader's death.
Government expects over 10 million to join Tehran ceremonies . But city was oddly calm before events,many residents leaving to dodge crowds . Streets usually bustling were quieter.
After five-week war, a ceasefire has paused hostilities, but Iran and US stay alert for conflict's return . Khamenei's assassination brings uncertain times for Islamic Republic. Funeral tests public support for government amid recent unrest.
Funeral will stretch over days,with Khamenei's coffin in Tehran for three days before moving to Qom, then Iraq,and finally,Mashhad for burial. He'll be laid to rest with family killed in February strikes,including granddaughter.
Ceremonies progress under tight security to manage crowds. Roads blocked,airspace expected restricted to keep safety during what could be Iran's largest gathering since Ruhollah Khomeini's 1989 burial. Authorities wary of risks large crowds bring,remembering past tragedies.
In coming days,all eyes on Mojtaba Khamenei,who's only communicated in writing,rumored injured in strikes. His public presence closely watched as nation navigates mourning and uncertainty…
