TEHRAN, Iran — Iran commenced a funeral procession on Monday for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who died recently at the age of 86. His flag-draped coffin, along with those of family members killed in an airstrike, was displayed on a truck as it moved through the capital, Tehran, attended by thousands of mourners. The procession is expected to last 12 hours, concluding at Mehrabad International Airport, according to Revolutionary Guard General Hasan Hasanzsdeh, who is overseeing the event.
Background on Khamenei's Death
Khamenei's death has sparked a wave of public mourning, with authorities anticipating large crowds to demonstrate support for the government. Streets and airspace have been shut down to facilitate the procession, which began on Saturday and will culminate in Khamenei's burial at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, his birthplace, on Thursday. During the procession, mourners have expressed calls for vengeance against U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reflecting heightened tensions in the region.
Impact on U.S.-Iran Relations
The U.S. is currently engaged in negotiations with Iran aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran's nuclear program. However, these talks appear to be on hold until after Khamenei's burial. The situation remains fluid, with the potential for increased unrest as mourners express their grievances. The funeral has become a focal point for both mourning and political expression against foreign leaders.
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The developments in Iran could influence oil prices, particularly if tensions escalate in the region. Investors may react to any signs of instability that could disrupt oil supply routes. Watch for updates on the U.S.-Iran negotiations following Khamenei's burial as a key indicator of future relations.