Iran has expressed heartfelt gratitude to India for sending an official delegation to the funeral of its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The Iranian Embassy in India described India’s participation as a powerful symbol of mutual respect, friendship and solidarity between the two nations.
The funeral ceremony was attended by an Indian delegation representing the Government of India and public life. The delegation included Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita, senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti, and Bihar Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain.
Iran Thanks India for the Gesture
In a statement shared on social media, the Iranian Embassy thanked India for standing with the Iranian people during a period of national mourning.
The embassy said India’s participation reflected the deep historical, cultural and diplomatic ties shared by the two countries. It described the visit as a meaningful expression of friendship and sincere solidarity.
According to the embassy, the presence of Indian political leaders, scholars, intellectuals and representatives of different faith communities highlighted the long-standing relationship between India and Iran.
Delegation Represents India at Funeral
The Indian delegation travelled to Tehran to pay tribute during the funeral ceremonies for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran had invited representatives from nearly 100 countries to attend the ceremonies. Delegations from several nations, including Pakistan, Russia and China, were also present.
Multi-Day Funeral Procession Underway
The funeral ceremonies are being held over several days across different cities in Iran and Iraq.
On Monday, a large funeral procession moved through Tehran, where Khamenei’s flag-draped coffin was carried through the capital before being taken toward Mehrabad International Airport. Iranian authorities have announced that the final burial is scheduled to take place in Mashhad on July 9.
The procession is expected to pass through several important religious locations, including the Iraqi cities of Najaf and Karbala, before the burial ceremony concludes.
India-Iran Relations
India and Iran have maintained centuries-old cultural and civilisational ties along with significant diplomatic and economic cooperation.
Iran’s latest message of appreciation underlines the importance both countries continue to place on maintaining bilateral relations, even during periods of regional uncertainty.
As the funeral ceremonies continue, Tehran has reiterated that India’s participation will be remembered as a gesture of respect and goodwill that strengthened the bonds between the two nations.
