Iran Thanks India For Participating In Khamenei's Funeral As Reports Claim 13 Countries Kept Away Amid US Pressure

Last Updated:July 07, 2026, 13:08 IST

A public funeral ceremony for Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the coordinated US-Israeli strikes on February 28, began on February 4 in Tehran

The Embassy of Iran in India penned a public gratitude note, thanking the country for participating in the grand funeral ceremony of its slain Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, which commenced on July 4. The expression came against the backdrop of reports suggesting several countries chose to stay away from the event amid diplomatic pressure from the United States.

A public funeral ceremony for Ali Khamenei –– who was killed in the coordinated US-Israeli strikes on February 28 –– began on February 4 in Tehran as millions of mourners gathered at the Grand Mosalla prayer complex to pay tribute to the late leader.

On Monday, the Iranian Embassy took to ‘X’ and wrote: “The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in the Republic of India extends its heartfelt gratitude and sincere appreciation to the friendly Government and people of India, especially the official delegation that attended on behalf of the Government and people of India, for participating in the funeral ceremonies and paying tribute to the martyred Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran, His Eminence Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei."

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The embassy highlighted the presence of India’s political leaders and Members of Parliament (MPs) reflected a “powerful expression of mutual respect and sincere solidarity“.

“The esteemed presence of political leaders, Members of Parliament, eminent scholars, intellectuals, and leaders of India’s diverse faiths and religious communities at these solemn ceremonies reflected the deep historical, cultural, and human bonds between our two nations. It also stood as a powerful expression of mutual respect and sincere solidarity with the people of Iran during this time of national mourning", it said.

Describing the participation as a “precious testament to the enduring ties“, the embassy expressed optimism that the episode would further strengthen the “longstanding friendship" between the two countries.

“The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect. They regard it as a precious testament to the enduring ties between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of India, and as a valuable foundation for further strengthening the longstanding friendship between our two countries."

“The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India once again conveys its sincere appreciation to all Indian officials, distinguished personalities, and the noble people of India who stood with the people of Iran and expressed their sympathy during this period of grief", it added.

Iran’s statement came as the country’s Tasnim News Agency earlier reported that the United States had pressured countries against sending official delegations to Tehran. At least 13 countries either scaled back or kept away from Khamenei’s last rites after diplomatic pressure by Washington, said the report.

Who Represented India At Khamenei’s Funeral?

Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Lt General Syed Ata Hasnain (retired) represented New Delhi at Ali Khamenei’s funeral in Tehran. The official delegation was accompanied by several other leaders, including People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid.

A delegation of religious leaders from India representing different faith traditions also reached Tehran to pay their last respects to the country’s late leader.

For New Delhi, the decision to dispatch an official delegation to Khamenei’s funeral falls in line with the government’s multi-partner approach in the Gulf despite shifting geopolitical landscapes.

Khamenei To Be Buried In Mashhad

A large funeral procession for Khamenei and his family members –– who were also killed on the opening day of the US-Israeli strikes –– was carried out on Monday. His mortal remains will be taken to the holy city of Mashhad for burial next to the shrine of Imam Reza.

During the intervening days, the procession will travel to the seminary city of Qom for ceremonies before being flown to the neighbouring Iraqi holy cities of Najaf and Karbala.

News world Iran Thanks India For Participating In Khamenei's Funeral As Reports Claim 13 Countries Kept Away Amid US Pressure

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