Crowds Gather in Tehran for Ayatollah Khamenei's Funeral Amid Security Warnings

1-Minute Brief

The funeral of Ayatollah Khamenei has drawn large crowds and heightened security due to warnings of possible attacks.

Key Facts

• Ayatollah Khamenei's body will lie in state in Tehran's Grand Mosalla until Monday.
• Large crowds have gathered in Tehran for the first day of the funeral.
• The funeral procession will travel across Iran and Iraq after the initial viewing in Tehran.
• Iran has warned the US and Israel that any attacks during the funeral would be met with 'harsh retaliation', according to The Independent.
• The Independent reports that the funeral is expected to draw 20 million people.

What Happened

Ayatollah Khamenei's funeral began with his body lying in state at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, drawing significant crowds and prompting official security warnings.

Why It Matters

The event is significant due to Khamenei's role as Iran's Supreme Leader and the large public turnout, occurring amid regional tensions and explicit warnings to foreign governments.

What's Next

Khamenei's body will remain in Tehran until Monday before the funeral procession continues across Iran and Iraq. Security measures are expected to remain heightened.