New Delhi: The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in New Delhi has thanked the Government and people of India for attending the funeral ceremonies of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, saying the gesture highlighted the “deep historical, cultural, and human bonds” between the two countries, ANI reported.
In a post on X on Sunday, the embassy extended “heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation” to the official delegation and to Indian political leaders, Members of Parliament, scholars, intellectuals and representatives of different faiths who paid tribute at the Tehran ceremonies. It described their presence as “a powerful expression of mutual respect and sincere solidarity with the people of Iran during this time of national mourning.”
“The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect,” the embassy added, calling it a “precious testament” to enduring ties and a basis for strengthening bilateral friendship. The post also thanked Indian officials, public figures and citizens who expressed sympathy following Khamenei’s death.
India was represented at the funeral by Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt Gen (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain. Senior Congress leader and former external affairs minister Salman Khurshid, and Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti also attended. Mufti posted on X that she stood with Iran in its “moment of profound loss and grief.”
Ayatollah Khamenei was killed in US-Israeli strikes on February 28, triggering heightened tensions across West Asia. Millions attended the funeral in Tehran, where Iranian leaders pledged to continue his legacy and seek accountability.
Following Khamenei’s death, his son Mojtaba Khamenei has been named Iran’s new supreme leader but, according to Al Jazeera, is expected to skip parts of the six-day funeral programme for security reasons amid persistent threats.
