Millions of Iraqis join Ayatollah Khamenei funeral in Najaf

The funeral procession for Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution, began from al-Kufa Bridge in Najaf, Iraq, with crowds moving toward the shrine of Imam Ali (a.s.), one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam. Iraqi officials and volunteers, experienced in organizing mass pilgrimages, prepared for the ceremonies that will also take place in Karbala. Video footage showed vast crowds participating in the procession.

The funeral rites moved to Iraq after several days of commemoration in Iran, where millions of mourners took part in ceremonies in Tehran and Qom. Ayatollah Khamenei was assassinated in the February 28 U.S.-Israeli attack alongside family members and senior officials. Iraqi officials had been coordinating with Tehran on the funeral arrangements, with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visiting Baghdad last month for that purpose.

According to Mehr News, the procession in Najaf drew millions of Iraqis, reflecting the deep reverence for the late leader. The event underscores the strong ties between Iran and Iraq, particularly in religious and political spheres. The funeral ceremonies are expected to continue in Karbala, another significant Shia holy city.