What Happened
Iran has begun a week of mass funeral events and mourning for its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His body has been laid in state in Tehran, where funerary processions are taking place under tight security. Large numbers of mourners are expected to attend, with one outlet estimating up to 20 million people.
During this period of national mourning, Iran has issued threats of 'harsh retaliation' against the United States or Israel should either country launch strikes. The security measures are heightened across the country as the funeral events proceed.
One media outlet characterized the extensive funeral proceedings as serving as a 'referendum' for the ruling regime. The events mark a significant period for the nation as it mourns its top leader.
Key Facts
- 1
Iran is holding a week of mass funeral events for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's body has been laid in state in Tehran.
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Funerary processions are taking place in Tehran under tight security.
- 4
Large numbers of mourners are expected, with one estimate of 20 million.
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Iran has threatened 'harsh retaliation' against the US or Israel if strikes occur during the funeral period.
