The Khamenei funeral procession will span several days and reach Iraq before the late Iranian leader’s burial. Iranian officials say the ceremonies will highlight Shiite unity across borders during a tense period in the region.
Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani announced the plans in remarks to local media. According to his statement, authorities will transfer the body to Iraq on July 8, 2026. In addition, officials want the move to symbolize religious solidarity between Shiite communities.
The state funeral will continue for six days. Furthermore, organizers plan ceremonies in several major cities across Iran and Iraq.
Public memorial events will begin in Tehran on July 4 and July 5. Officials will hold the ceremonies at Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla. Meanwhile, thousands of mourners are expected to attend.
On July 6, Tehran will host a large funeral march. Authorities expect massive crowds during the event. Some estimates suggest that up to 20 million people could participate.
Afterward, commemorations will move to the holy city of Qom on July 7. The city holds deep religious significance for many Shiite Muslims. Therefore, officials consider the procession an important stage of the ceremonies.
The Khamenei funeral procession will then cross into Iraq on July 8. Although Iraqi officials have not commented publicly, reports indicate that the route could pass through Najaf and Karbala. Both cities rank among the holiest places in Shiite Islam.
In addition, large crowds are expected along the route. Security authorities in both countries may coordinate efforts to manage the ceremonies and maintain order.
The final events will take place in Mashhad on July 9. The Imam Reza Shrine will host the closing ceremonies and burial. Mashhad remains Iran’s second-largest city and one of the country’s most important religious centers.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei died in February 2026 following coordinated air strikes that targeted Tehran. The United States and Israel carried out the attacks. However, several weeks of ceasefire and the scale of the planned ceremonies delayed the funeral arrangements.
As preparations continue, officials expect the Khamenei funeral procession to become one of the largest religious gatherings in the region this year. Officials and observers will closely watch the events because of their religious and political significance.
