Iran holds funeral prayers for slain leader Khamenei in Mashhad

Iran held funeral prayers in the eastern city of Mashhad on Thursday for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli airstrike in February, concluding a week-long procession that drew thousands to the streets of the holy city. Thousands gathered at the Imam Reza Shrine complex for the ceremonies, which were led by Khamenei's son Mostafa, according to Mehr News Agency.

The Supreme Leader is set to be laid to rest at the shrine, one of the holiest sites in Shia Islam, following final rites observed by massive crowds from across the country.

US-Israeli war kills thousands

Israel and the United States launched joint military strikes against Iran on February 28, killing more than 3,000 people and targeting senior leadership figures in multiple locations, according to official statements. Tehran responded with drone and missile attacks against Israeli positions and Gulf states hosting US military assets, escalating regional tensions and disrupting commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Diplomatic efforts underway

Last month, Iranian and American officials signed a memorandum of understanding under Pakistani mediation aimed at ending the military conflict and establishing a lasting peace settlement. Talks between the parties resumed earlier this month in Islamabad, according to diplomatic sources, as both sides seek to de-escalate hostilities following months of aerial bombardments.