In the heart of Tehran, preparations are underway for an extensive funeral ceremony honoring Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the recently deceased Iranian supreme leader. The proceedings, commencing this weekend, aim to draw millions of mourners and serve as a demonstration of support for the Islamic Republic, following a devastating conflict that claimed Khamenei's life at 86. This funeral procession mirrors the burial ceremony of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989, further underscoring Iran's resolve and unity. The government seeks to capitalize on this event as it engages in negotiations with the United States regarding a permanent cessation of hostilities in the Strait of Hormuz and grapples with ongoing concerns about potential Israeli aggression. Amidst these geopolitical tensions, a prominent general from Iran's paramilitary Revolutionary Guard has emerged publicly for the first time in months to participate in the funeral rites. Senior government officials, foreign dignitaries, and religious leaders are also expected to attend this display of strength and unity by the Islamic Republic. According to Mohammad Hossein Rezaei, a volunteer preparing for the funeral, Iran will continue its stance against humiliation and pursue independence, with decisions being made within the country by the people. The late Khamenei's flag-draped coffin currently rests at Tehran's Grand Mosalla alongside family members who perished in an Israeli airstrike during the conflict. Relatives of those lost in the 12-day war in 2025 and the recent Iranian conflict have been invited to mourn, as well as the wife of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader who remains in hiding after reportedly being wounded in the attack. The funeral will extend across several days, with Khamenei's body transported to cities within Iran and neighboring Iraq. Authorities have announced plans to suspend daily life in Tehran during the commemoration of Khamenei's life, as images of his raised fist can be seen adorning banners and statues throughout the city.