TEHRAN: Arrangements are being finalized in the capital Tehran for the funeral prayer of Iran’s martyred Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, and extraordinary security measures have been taken in view of the arrival of millions of mourners.
According to reports, the body of Ayatollah Khamenei has been transferred to the Imam Khomeini Hussainiya in the southern area of Tehran, where the public is being provided with the opportunity to pay their last respects.
The condolence atmosphere in Tehran is very touching and citizens are gathering in large numbers at various places to pay tribute to their beloved leader. Strict security arrangements have been implemented at important places including the Grand Mosque in connection with the funeral prayer so that the ceremonies can be held peacefully.
According to Iranian officials, the burial of the martyred Supreme Leader will be held in Mashhad on July 8. In addition, condolence gatherings and prayer ceremonies are also being held in the holy cities of Baghdad, Kazmin, Karbala and Najaf in Iraq, where thousands of people are expected to participate.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will also arrive in Tehran today and attend the funeral prayers of Ayatollah Khamenei, accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and important members of the federal cabinet.
On this occasion, the Prime Minister will reiterate Pakistan’s solidarity with Iran, promotion of bilateral relations and full cooperation in difficult times.
According to sources, after completing his visit to Iran, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will leave for Turkey at the invitation of the Turkish President, where he will attend important official engagements and high-level meetings until July 5. This visit is being described as important in the context of promoting diplomatic relations and mutual cooperation in the region.