Iranian Mourners Demand Revenge at Khamenei's Day 2 Funeral as 15 Million Are Expected
Updated
Updated · CNN · Jul 5
Iranian Mourners Demand Revenge at Khamenei's Day 2 Funeral as 15 Million Are Expected
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Jul 5
Summary
Thousands gathered in Tehran for the second day of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s funeral, where chants, a poem attacking Donald Trump and calls for “blood vengeance” underscored rising public anger.
Iran’s top leadership — including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and IRGC chief Ahmad Vahidi — prayed over Khamenei’s coffin and those of four relatives killed in the same US-Israeli strike.
Mojtaba Khamenei, the slain leader’s son and successor, was absent again, even as three of his brothers appeared, deepening questions about his health and visibility after reports he was wounded.
Several ships trying to pass the Strait of Hormuz turned back after hugging Oman’s coast, showing commercial traffic still faces disruption despite early signs of recovery.
Analysts said the huge funeral is meant to project continuity and unity under new leadership, with Iranian authorities expecting about 15 million people to join ceremonies in coming days.
With Iran's designated successor missing, is the powerful Revolutionary Guard staging a quiet coup during the national mourning?
Will Iran’s new military-led government choose 'blood vengeance' or accept a $300 billion deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz?
20 Million Gather for Khamenei’s Funeral: Iran’s Response to Assassination and Global Repercussions
Overview
Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28, 2026, Iran launched a meticulously planned six-day funeral, aiming to showcase national unity and strength to its adversaries. Authorities anticipated up to 20 million mourners in Tehran, mobilizing extensive logistical support with food, lodging, and transport to ensure massive participation. The ceremonies drew huge crowds and were marked by intense emotion and political messaging, reflecting both grief and calls for retribution. This large-scale, state-supported farewell highlighted the regime’s effort to project resilience and legitimacy during a critical moment of transition and heightened regional tension.