TEHRAN — Millions of Iranians were expected to participate in funeral ceremonies beginning Saturday to honor Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, whose death marked the end of a 35-year tenure as the nation’s highest authority. The events, planned to span six days, are being positioned by Iranian officials as a demonstration of national unity and resilience amid ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel.

Authorities in Tehran anticipate attendance figures ranging from 15 to 20 million people over the three-day period scheduled for public tributes. The ceremonies are centered at the Grand Mosalla religious complex, where hundreds of supporters had already gathered Friday evening ahead of the official start. The coffin of the late leader is set to remain on public display until Monday.

Khamenei, who assumed leadership of the Islamic Republic in 1989 following the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, passed away at age 86 on February 28, coinciding with the outbreak of the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. His death has triggered an extended period of national mourning and state-organized observances designed to underline the continuity of the regime.

Attention is particularly focused on Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of the late leader. He was named Supreme Leader by Iran’s governing bodies a week after his father’s death but has yet to make any public appearances. Observers inside and outside Iran are scrutinizing the funeral events for any indications regarding his role and future leadership.

Security arrangements for the ceremonies are extensive. Iranian authorities have closed key roads in Tehran and are expected to restrict airspace over the capital to manage the large crowds and maintain order. This funeral is being regarded as the largest public event in the country since the burial of Khomeini in 1989, reflecting the significant political and social impact of Khamenei’s death.

Supporters expressed a determined resolve to honor the late leader despite the logistical challenges posed by the massive turnout and tight security. "We want to say a final goodbye to our leader, which is why waiting like this isn’t painful or difficult for us," said Somaye Hamedi, one of the early mourners at the site.

Officials have framed the funeral as both a tribute and a political statement, intended to send a message of strength and permanence to external adversaries, particularly the United States. The high-profile commemoration underscores the leadership transition and signals the regime’s intent to maintain unity amid regional uncertainty.