Ayatollah Khamenei farewell ceremony begins in Tehran

Large numbers of people from Tehran and other cities had been assembling for hours along the streets leading to the Mosalla and in designated areas, preparing to attend the historic ceremony from its earliest moments. The farewell rites mark the beginning of three days of official commemoration for the late Leader, who was assassinated in the February 28 U.S.-Israeli attack.

The ceremony, which kicked off in Tehran, saw mourners carrying portraits of Ayatollah Khamenei and waving Iranian flags. Security was tight as authorities managed the massive crowds. The event is being broadcast live on state television, with millions expected to participate in the mourning processions over the next three days.

According to Mehr News, the farewell ceremony is the first of several events planned to honor the late Supreme Leader. The attack that killed him has been condemned by many world leaders, though the U.S. and Israel have not officially commented. The Iranian government has declared three days of national mourning, and flags are flying at half-mast across the country.