Iran Sets Tentative Date for Khamenei's Funeral Procession

Mohammad Ali Tavakolizadeh, Deputy for Social and Cultural Affairs at Tehran Municipality, announced that the Iranian Revolutionary Guard is responsible for leading and organizing the funeral ceremonies of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Preparations currently include holding three days of funeral and farewell events.

Tavakolizadeh indicated that the funeral is likely to take place in late Dhu al-Hijjah or early Muharram, which corresponds approximately to the end of June. He added that consultations are ongoing about possibly extending the preparation period to ensure a large-scale organization of the ceremonies.

The funeral events in Tehran are expected to last more than 24 hours, with significant public participation anticipated from across the country. Tavakolizadeh confirmed that all Iranian provinces have begun preparations to take part in the events.

He also noted that several provinces have expressed interest in hosting parts of the funeral ceremonies. However, the current plan includes major events in Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad following the conclusion of the ceremonies in the capital.

Initial estimates suggest that between 15 and 20 million people may attend the funeral in Tehran, which could make it one of the largest public gatherings in Iran's history, according to Tavakolizadeh.

Regarding the possibility of holding funeral ceremonies outside Iran, he stated that relevant authorities are considering organizing events in Iraq, but no final decision has been made yet.

According to the Iranian narrative presented in official statements, Khamenei was killed along with several family members and senior military leaders during U.S. and Israeli strikes targeting Tehran on February 28.