IRIB Chief Says Farewell Ceremony Marks Beginning of ‘Great Khamenei Era’

The head of Iran’s state broadcaster, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), said the farewell ceremony for Martyred Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei marks the beginning of what he described as the “Great Khamenei Era.” His remarks came as commemorative events continued in Tehran, where large crowds gathered for official mourning ceremonies.

According to Iranian state media, Ayatollah Khamenei was martyred during a U.S.-Israeli attack on Tehran on February 28, 2026, at the outset of a 40-day conflict between Iran and its adversaries. Iranian officials have described his death as an assassination and said the conflict ended after Iranian military operations prompted a halt to hostilities. The United States and Israel have not necessarily characterized the events in the same way.

Iranian authorities said the main funeral procession in Tehran is scheduled for July 6, followed by ceremonies in Qom on July 7. Additional commemorative events are also planned for July 8 in the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala, following requests from Iraqi religious scholars, tribal leaders, political figures, and members of the public, according to Iranian officials.