Millions Mourn Khamenei, but Iran’s Divisions Remain

Millions of Iranians poured into the streets for the funeral of former supreme leader Ali Khamenei. The massive turnout showed support for the regime, but also revealed deep divisions. Many mourners came to express opposition to the killing of their leader, regardless of their feelings about the government. As the funeral moved from Tehran to the holy city of Qom and then to Najaf in Iraq, Iran’s leaders debated what the crowds meant. Some officials saw the marches as a clear referendum of support for the clerical establishment. They called for a tougher stance against the West. Others argued that the crowds reflected national pride, but with conditions. These conditions include demands for political change and an end to the war.