Manzar Naqvi
KARACHI: Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian has called upon the nation to demonstrate unprecedented unity as millions of mourners prepare to participate in the funeral procession and final farewell to the martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, describing the occasion as one of the most defining moments in the history of the Islamic Republic.
In a message issued ahead of the funeral ceremonies, President Pezeshkian said Iran stands at “one of the most glorious and historic moments” in its contemporary history, urging citizens from every ethnic, religious and political background to take part in the farewell procession in a powerful display of national solidarity.
The President opened his address with the Holy Quranic verse: “And do not think of those who are killed in the way of Allah as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision,” emphasizing the Islamic concept of martyrdom and describing the late leader’s sacrifice as an enduring source of inspiration for the Iranian nation and the wider Muslim Ummah.
President Pezeshkian said the martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei had brought profound grief to Iran, the Islamic world and supporters of the cause of resistance across the globe,but stressed that the loss would further strengthen the nation’s determination to preserve its independence, dignity and revolutionary ideals.
“This crimson ascension is not the end of the road but the beginning of a new era of unity, steadfastness and national progress,” the President declared, adding that Iran has repeatedly emerged stronger and more united after overcoming the most difficult challenges in its modern history.
Describing Ayatollah Khamenei as a wise leader, tireless revolutionary and steadfast standard-bearer of resistance, President Pezeshkian said his thoughts, leadership and legacy would remain permanently engraved in the historical memory of the Iranian nation and in the conscience of all those who value freedom and independence.
He said the late leader dedicated his life to safeguarding Iran’s sovereignty, promoting religious democracy, strengthening national resilience and defending the country’s independence against external pressure.
The President underlined that the country’s future security, stability and prosperity depend upon national unity, public awareness and collective determination to resist what he described as external greed and intimidation.
Calling for massive public participation in the funeral procession, President Pezeshkian said the presence of millions of mourners would send a clear message to the international community that the Iranian people remain united in defending their country’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and national dignity.
He emphasized that no act of violence or terrorism would weaken Iran’s resolve to continue building a prosperous, independent and powerful nation.
“The flag that this great leader devoted his entire life to raising will never fall,” the President said, expressing confidence that the Iranian nation would once again demonstrate its resilience during the historic farewell.
Political observers believe the funeral is expected to become one of the largest public gatherings in the history of the Islamic Republic, reflecting both public mourning and continued support for the principles associated with the Islamic Revolution.
Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei led the Islamic Republic through decades marked by regional conflicts, international sanctions, diplomatic challenges and major geopolitical developments. Throughout his leadership, he consistently advocated national self-reliance, scientific advancement, strategic independence and resistance to foreign pressure, policies that supporters say strengthened Iran’s institutions and reinforced its position in the region.
Government officials have described the funeral ceremonies not only as a national farewell but also as a renewed pledge to uphold the values, vision and legacy of the late Leader. Authorities expect millions of Iranians from across the country to attend the funeral procession, turning the event into a historic demonstration of national unity and commitment to the ideals of the Islamic Republic.
President Pezeshkian concluded his message by recalling the divine promise contained in the Holy Quran that the oppressed shall ultimately inherit the earth, expressing confidence that Iran would continue moving forward with unity, faith and determination despite the immense loss of its revolutionary leader.
