Iran has expressed its gratitude to India for participating in the funeral ceremonies of its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, describing the gesture as a reflection of the longstanding friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
In a statement shared on X, the Iranian Embassy in India thanked the Government of India, the official delegation, political leaders, religious representatives and the Indian people for standing with Iran during its period of national mourning. The embassy said the participation demonstrated the deep historical, cultural and humanitarian ties shared by the two countries and would always be remembered by the Iranian people.
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India’s official delegation included Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain, who paid tribute to Khamenei during the state funeral. Congress leader Salman Khurshid, People’s Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti, along with leaders from Sikh, Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities, also attended the ceremonies.
The embassy said the presence of Indian dignitaries was a powerful expression of solidarity with the people of Iran and a valuable step towards further strengthening bilateral relations. It added that Iran deeply appreciated the compassion and respect shown by India during this difficult period.
Meanwhile, Khamenei’s funeral procession began in Tehran on Monday, drawing hundreds of thousands of mourners. According to Iranian state media, the procession is expected to last between 10 and 12 hours as the flag-draped coffin is taken through the capital before its final journey to Mashhad.
Authorities imposed extensive security arrangements and urged people to maintain order as crowds gathered along the procession route. Iran has declared several days of national mourning, with Khamenei set to be buried at the Imam Reza shrine in Mashhad. Officials believe the massive turnout reflects public support and national unity during one of the country’s most significant state ceremonies in recent years.
