Massive crowds have descended upon the city of Qom in central Iran for a grand funeral procession honoring the life and legacy of the country's former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. The outpouring of grief is a testament to the profound impact Khamenei had on Iranian politics and society during his nearly four-decade-long tenure. As mourners gather to pay their respects, the event is expected to be a highly choreographed display of national unity and a demonstration of the continued influence of the Islamic Republic's hardline establishment. With Khamenei's successor, Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, in attendance, the funeral is also likely to serve as a pivotal moment in Iran's transition of power.
Tens of thousands of mourners gather in Qom for a funeral service for Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
