Iran is holding a multi-day funeral for its former supreme leader Ali Khamenei, demonstrating defiance and resilience after its war with the US and Israel. Patrick Wintour, the Guardian’s diplomatic editor, reports from the scene.
Massive Turnout at Funeral
Wintour described the atmosphere: “I’m just one dot on those numbers you’re seeing from helicopters. When I was in the mosque yesterday, it was absolutely rammed, packed, and people couldn’t get into the mosque. There were clearly more than 50,000, 60,000 there.”
Khamenei's Legacy and the War
Khamenei ruled for 36 years until he was killed on the first day of airstrikes in February. The war began with a shocking attack that seemed to pose an existential threat to Iran. However, according to Robert Malley, a US special envoy for Iran during Joe Biden’s presidency, the ceasefire deal being negotiated is in Tehran’s favor.
The funeral serves as a show of confidence and resilience by the Iranian regime, drawing large crowds and international attention.
