Mourners crowded Tehran paying final respects to fallen leaders
Thousands converged on Tehran's Grand Mosalla on Friday to honor former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, whose flag-draped casket lay next to the tiny coffin of his 14-month-old granddaughter, Zahra Mohammadi Golpayegani. She perished alongside her grandfather and other relatives on February 28 during military strikes launched jointly by the United States and Israel. Her framed photograph rested near her coffin, entirely enveloped in the Iranian national flag, evoking deep sorrow from the mourning crowds.
Mourners carrying red banners chanted slogans demanding retribution as they filled the vast courtyard of the complex. Several top officials exhibited profound grief, including parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who wept visibly. Ahmad Vahidi, recently appointed to lead the Revolutionary Guards following the death of his predecessor in the same February bombardments, also paid respects to the slain leader.
International Delegations Arrive
Foreign dignitaries attended the solemn event to express condolences on behalf of their respective nations. India sent a formal delegation comprising Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain and Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita. This diplomatic gesture highlights New Delhi's ongoing efforts to balance strategic partnerships across the Middle East while respecting longstanding bilateral ties with Tehran.
Remains of the deceased leader will stay in the Iranian capital until Monday before proceeding through a planned public procession. The cortege will subsequently travel to Qom on Tuesday and visit holy shrines in neighboring Iraq. Final burial rites are scheduled for Thursday in Mashhad.
