Khamenei's Funeral Procession Begins in Tehran; Millions Expected to Attend

The Islamic Republic has initiated the first phase of an extensive, orchestrated farewell for Ali Khamenei, whose coffin was displayed publicly in Tehran for the first time. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, the ceremonies are being overseen by the senior leadership of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including commander Ahmad Vahidi. The presence of the IRGC top brass at the farewell ceremony underscores the organization's role in maintaining internal stability during this transition. ### International and Domestic Participation Foreign delegations have begun arriving in Tehran to participate in the rites. In addition to representatives from China, India, and Pakistan, the President of Tajikistan arrived in the capital on Friday morning. Domestically, the Iranian Jewish community has also announced its participation in the funeral and eulogies. As previously reported by The Zioneer, this move is widely interpreted as a response to regime pressure on minority groups to demonstrate public loyalty during the sensitive leadership succession. ### Funeral Itinerary and Security The current events in Tehran are part of a larger schedule that will see the procession move through several cities, including Qom, before the final burial in Mashhad. The regime is utilizing the Imam Khomeini Mosque as a central hub for these initial ceremonies to project institutional continuity. Security remains high across the capital as millions are expected to fill the streets throughout the day, with the IRGC coordinating logistics for both domestic mourners and the influx of foreign dignitaries.