Tehran turns into sea of mourners as Iran warns US before Khamenei funeral

Millions are pouring into Tehran for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral as Iran lashes out at the US and Israel, warning the region after the devastating war.

WEBDESK – MEDIABITES

Tehran is witnessing an emotional and explosive atmosphere as millions of Iranians gather for the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, while Iran’s leadership openly accuses the United States of spreading war and instability across the Middle East.

In scenes described as unprecedented, giant portraits of Khamenei now dominate Tehran’s streets, black flags hang across major highways, and emotional crowds continue pouring into the Iranian capital ahead of what officials say could become the largest funeral in the country’s history.

Iranian authorities expect more than 20 million mourners to participate in the funeral ceremonies beginning Saturday, turning Tehran into the center of global attention after months of deadly conflict between Iran, Israel, and the United States.

The funeral comes after Khamenei was killed during the opening days of the US-Israel war on Iran on February 28. Iranian media said several members of his family and senior officials were also killed in the strikes that shook the Islamic Republic.

Just hours before the funeral, Iran launched a furious verbal attack on Washington.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei accused the United States of showing “complete contempt” for peace and security in West Asia, warning regional countries to learn lessons from the recent war.

The sharp statement has further intensified tensions despite a fragile ceasefire agreement recently reached between Iran and the US to halt open military confrontation.

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Meanwhile, Iran’s military also issued a stern warning regarding the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil routes. State television quoted military officials as saying all vessels entering the strategic waterway must follow routes designated by Iranian armed forces or face a “forceful response”.

The warning has sparked fresh concerns in global markets over possible disruptions in oil shipments and regional stability.

Khamenei’s body has now arrived at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla Mosque, where emotional mourners were seen crying, waving Iranian flags, and holding portraits of the late leader.

Funeral prayers and processions will continue in multiple cities across Iran and Iraq until July 9, before Khamenei is finally laid to rest at the revered Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad, his hometown.

For many Iranians, Khamenei was more than a political figure. Supporters viewed him as a spiritual symbol of resistance against Western influence and Israeli power in the region.

His death has dramatically reshaped Iran’s political landscape and raised urgent questions about the country’s future leadership, regional strategy, and relationship with the West.

As millions gather in Tehran, the funeral has become not just a moment of mourning, but a massive political show of strength at a time when the Middle East remains dangerously tense.