UPI
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei led a funeral service in Tehran for President Ebrahim Raisi and others who died in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border. The ceremony, attended by foreign dignitaries including Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, took place at Tehran University, where Khamenei recited prayers over the flag-draped coffins.
The tragic crash claimed the lives of Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, and seven others. Following the prayers, thousands of mourners joined a procession to Tehran’s Freedom Square, honoring Raisi, who will be buried in Mashhad on Thursday.
The funeral drew international attention with delegations from various countries, including high-profile figures such as Haniyeh, who met privately with Khamenei post-ceremony. Haniyeh praised Raisi’s support for Palestine, highlighting the global significance of the Palestinian cause.
Lebanese Hezbollah’s deputy leader, as well as officials from Qatar, Turkmenistan, and other nations, were also present. Raisi’s death comes during a turbulent period for Iran, marked by domestic unrest and regional tensions. Vice President Mohammad Mokhber will serve as interim leader until the June 28 election. Raisi’s legacy, marred by his role in the 1988 mass executions and recent crackdowns, continues to spark controversy and condemnation from human rights groups and international critics.
