Tehran, Iran: Iran has officially begun the state funeral of late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, millions of mourners expected to take part in a six-day farewell that has captured global attention.

The funeral commenced on July 4 at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla, where thousands gathered from early morning to offer prayers and pay their final respects. Iranian authorities estimate that between 15 and 20 million people could participate in ceremonies across Iran and Iraq over the coming days, making it one of the country’s largest public gatherings in modern history.

Khamenei’s flag-draped coffin was placed inside a glass enclosure as mourners recited Quranic verses, prayed and paid tribute to the leader who shaped Iran’s political and religious landscape for more than three decades. Officials believe the turnout could rival the massive funeral of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989.

The funeral will continue until July 9. Khamenei’s body will remain in Tehran until July 6 before a large public procession moves through the capital. On July 7, the coffin will be taken to the holy city of Qom, followed by commemorative ceremonies in the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala on July 8. The final burial is scheduled at the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad, Khamenei’s hometown.

The ceremony also honoured several members of Khamenei’s family who were killed during the recent conflict. Their coffins were displayed alongside his, including those of his eldest daughter, son-in-law, a 14-month-old granddaughter and the wife of Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.

The timing of the funeral has drawn significant international attention as it began on July 4, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Although Iranian authorities did not officially explain the choice of date, anti-American slogans were heard from sections of the crowd during the opening ceremony.

The funeral is also the first major public event under Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Political observers are closely watching his public appearances and speeches for indications of the country’s future leadership and foreign policy direction.

Senior Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, attended the ceremony. Foreign dignitaries, including Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, also paid their respects.

India was represented by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain. Congress leader Salman Khurshid, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti and representatives from various faith communities were also present.

Authorities have enforced extensive security arrangements across Tehran, with road closures, traffic restrictions and emergency services deployed throughout the city. Medical teams and water distribution facilities have also been stationed at key locations as temperatures remain above 35°C.

Senior Iranian leaders used the funeral to deliver strong political messages. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran would continue seeking justice for those killed during the conflict, while Army Chief Amir Hatami warned that the country remained prepared to respond if hostilities resumed.

The funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has become far more than a national farewell. As millions continue to gather in Tehran and other cities over the coming days, the ceremonies are expected to influence Iran’s domestic politics while drawing intense international attention amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.