Iran’s Khamenei funeral signals continuity for the regime and vows of vengeance

Thousands gathered in Tehran as large-scale commemorations for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei began, with authorities promoting a message of continuity for the Islamic Republic and vengeance for his killing; red flags and chants framed the mood as the coffin was displayed under heavy security. Mojtaba Khamenei will not attend due to security concerns, and Iran plans a nationwide shutdown with up to 10 million participants, including a funeral procession through Tehran, Qom, Najaf and Karbala toward Mashhad. Dozens of countries attended and IRGC-backed groups were present, reinforcing the regime’s messaging.