TEHRAN – Iran held a large-scale state funeral on Friday in honour of senior military leaders, scientists, and civilians killed in recent Israeli airstrikes targeting strategic installations across the country.
The funeral procession in Tehran drew hundreds of thousands of mourners who gathered along Azadi Street and Enghelab Square. Coffins draped in the national flag were carried by military personnel, with full state honours accorded to top officials, including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Commander General Hossein Salami, IRGC Aerospace Chief Amir Ali Hajizadeh, and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri.
State media reported that more than one million people attended the event. Slogans condemning Israel and the United States were prominently chanted by attendees, reflecting public outrage over the deadly escalation.
National Mourning and High-Level Presence
The ceremony was attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, and senior members of the IRGC and government. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei did not appear in person but issued a statement lauding the fallen as martyrs and symbols of national resistance.
In addition to military leaders, several nuclear scientists and civilians, including women and children, were also laid to rest. According to official sources, a total of around 60 individuals were killed in the Israeli strikes.
Strategic Context
The funeral follows a brief but intense exchange between Iran and Israel, in which Iran launched retaliatory missile strikes on Israeli cities and American military sites in the region. The conflict began on June 13 and saw a direct targeting of nuclear facilities and command structures.
Iranian authorities reported at least 610 deaths and over 4,700 injuries from the strikes, while Israeli sources confirmed 28 fatalities and thousands injured on their side. Independent sources estimate the casualty figures to be significantly higher.
Diplomatic Implications
While the Iranian leadership presented the funeral as a demonstration of unity and resolve, Foreign Minister Araqchi stated that Tehran remains open to regional dialogue but warned against any further provocation.
Tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States remain elevated, with analysts warning that the situation could escalate further without international mediation.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.