Iran has begun the funeral ceremonies for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint US-Israeli attack. The week-long programme includes public tributes in Tehran, followed by funeral processions across several cities in Iran and Iraq.
Officials estimate that between 15 and 20 million people could take part in the ceremonies. Amid expectations of record-breaking crowds, Iranian authorities are reportedly preparing for a worst-case scenario that could result in thousands of casualties.
Officials prepare for possible mass casualties
According to German newspaper Die Welt, Iranian authorities have drawn up contingency plans amid fears that 1500 to 3000 people could die during the multi-day funeral events.
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The report states that thousands of new graves have been prepared at Behesht-e Zahra Cemetery in Tehran as part of emergency planning.
Secret report warns of potential death toll
Citing a Tehran municipality employee, Die Welt reported that the preparations are based on a confidential document issued by the Iranian Red Crescent and the National Crisis Management Organization.
The report allegedly warns that the combination of massive crowds, prolonged funeral processions and extreme weather conditions could lead to between 1500 and 3000 deaths over the course of the ceremonies.
Extreme heat, massive crowds raise safety concerns
Speaking anonymously, a Tehran municipal employee told the newspaper that the graves had already been prepared.
‘The graves have indeed been prepared. Officials have been informed that up to 3000 deaths are possible. With such enormous crowds and intense heat, no one knows what could happen,’ the employee was quoted as saying.
Authorities are reportedly taking precautionary measures to manage the expected influx of mourners.
Week-long funeral to conclude on July 9
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28 in the initial US-Israeli strike. Several members of his family and senior Iranian officials were also reportedly killed in the attack.
The funeral programme began on July 3 and will continue until July 9.
Khamenei will be buried in his hometown of Mashhad on July 9. Before the burial, his body will be taken in funeral processions through the Iranian holy city of Qom and the Iraqi holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.
First published on: Jul 05, 2026 07:17 AM IST
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