Ali Khamenei Funeral Begins in Tehran With Millions Expected

Iran has begun the funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei in Tehran, four months after the Supreme Leader was killed in joint U.S. and Israeli military strikes. State media reports that more than 20 million people are expected to travel to the capital for the events taking place during the weekend of July 5-6, 2026.

The funeral follows the assassination of the Ayatollah, whose body was recovered from rubble after a surprise military blitz. According to reporting from The Sun, the strikes occurred on the first day of a war initiated by Donald Trump.

How did Ali Khamenei die?

Ali Khamenei was killed during a coordinated military operation involving the United States and Israel. The strikes were part of a surprise blitz launched on day one of a conflict under the administration of Donald Trump, according to The Sun.

The impact of the strikes was severe enough that the Ayatollah’s body was found within a pile of rubble, as stated in the source material.

What are the details of the funeral in Tehran?

The funeral is described by state media as a long-anticipated ceremony. The Iranian government expects a massive turnout, with state media claiming an anticipated 20 million visitors to Tehran to bid farewell to the former leader.

The ceremonies are scheduled to reach their peak over the weekend of July 5 and 6, 2026, marking the end of a four-month period following the assassination.

Who was involved in the military operation?

The operation that resulted in the death of Ali Khamenei was a joint effort between the United States and Israel. The Sun attributes the decision for the surprise blitz to Donald Trump, noting it took place at the onset of the war.