Post by : Saif
Al-Najjar
The Iranian military landscape is shifting as General Ahmad Vahidi makes his long-awaited public return just as the country readies itself for the elaborate funeral of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This occurs against a backdrop of rising political tension and international discord involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
Images from Iranian state media capture Vahidi engaged in an official meeting focused on funeral logistics, later seen beside Khamenei's coffin during a private mourning gathering held Thursday evening close to the former leader’s residence in Tehran.
This marks Vahidi’s first public appearance since February, a period marked by significant changes in Iran’s military and political hierarchy.
Vahidi's Return Sparks Interest
General Ahmad Vahidi, head of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has largely been absent from public engagement since February. His renewed visibility has raised eyebrows among experts who see him as a key figure influencing Iran's security and diplomatic strategies.
Analysts suggest Vahidi is part of a select group of senior officials maintaining close ties with Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who ascended following the Israeli airstrikes that resulted in the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Reports indicate that Mojtaba Khamenei has been largely out of sight due to injuries reportedly sustained during recent conflicts.
Mourning Ceremony in Tehran
State television showcased a private mourning ceremony taking place near the Husseiniyah at Khamenei's compound in Tehran.
Mourners paid tribute as Khamenei's coffin sat on a stage adorned with red tulips, observing traditional Shiite funeral rites. Family members of those lost in recent conflicts also honored the late leader.
Attendees adhered to a cultural norm by tossing scarves and personal items toward the coffin, a custom believed to honor the deceased.
Red Flag Drapes Coffin
Subsequent footage displayed Khamenei's coffin covered with a red flag inscribed with "Ya Hussein," a significant phrase in Shiite Islam that honors the martyrdom of Imam Hussein.
This flag is said to have been brought from the Imam Hussein Shrine in Karbala, Iraq—one of the most sacred locations in Shiite Islam.
In Shiite belief, the red flag represents both the blood of the unjustly slain and a call for justice and remembrance.
Funeral Ceremonies in Tehran Commence
On Friday morning, security personnel carried Khamenei's coffin into the Grand Mosalla, paying their final respects alongside senior religious and government leaders, with the coffin displayed beside family members who lost their lives during the recent turmoil, including Khamenei's young granddaughter.
This funeral is anticipated to be one of the largest state occasions in Iran for several years.
Extended Funeral Observances Planned
Starting Saturday, Iranian officials intend to conduct a sequence of memorial services across various cities before transporting Khamenei's remains to Iraq for further religious observances.
Intensive security measures, including road closures and increased personnel, will be in place in Tehran as vast crowds are expected to converge for the ceremonies.
Authorities anticipate participation from high-ranking political figures, military officials, religious leaders, and thousands of mourners from throughout the nation.
Vahidi's Rising Political Profile
Political commentators argue that Ahmad Vahidi has emerged as a vital figure in Iran's leadership landscape following recent events.
He is seen as pivotal in steering Tehran's stance in bilateral discussions concerning a potential long-term peace accord with the United States.
His public reappearance amidst Khamenei's funeral preparations is likely to intensify discussions about his role in Iran's shifting power dynamics as the nation transitions under the leadership of Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei.
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