Massive crowds gather in Mashhad for funeral of Ayatollah Khamenei

TEHRAN, Jul. 09 (MNA) – Massive crowds of mourners filled the streets leading to the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad on Tuesday ahead of the funeral procession for the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

The funeral ceremony is scheduled to take place later today, with millions expected to participate. The body of Ayatollah Khamenei, who passed away earlier this week, was transported to Mashhad, the holy city where the shrine of Imam Reza (a.s.) is located.

Mourners, many dressed in black and carrying portraits of the late leader, lined the streets from early morning. Security forces were deployed to manage the large crowds and ensure the smooth conduct of the procession.

Ayatollah Khamenei served as the Leader of the Islamic Revolution for over three decades, succeeding Imam Khomeini. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief across Iran and the wider Muslim world.

According to Mehr News Agency, the funeral procession will proceed from the shrine to the holy shrine's courtyard, where a burial ceremony will be held. The event is being broadcast live on national television.