TEHRAN - The late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian were laid to rest in Mashhad and Tehran, respectively, concluding days of funeral attended by several millions of mourners.

The funeral ceremonies, marked by large crowds and heartfelt tributes, showcased the nation’s unity and determination in the face of adversity.

Presiden Raisi and Foreign Minister Amir Abdollahian were involved in a fatal accident on Sunday they were returning from a dam inauguration ceremony at the common border with the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Raisi and his entourage were en route to East Azarbaijan province when the helicopter carrying them crashed in a mountainous area on Sunday.

The incident engulfed Iran in shock and grief, and generated a groundswell of support and solidarity from Muslims and non-Muslims across the world.

President Raisi was laid to rest at the holy Imam Reza (AS) Shrine in Mashhad on Thursday afternoon. This revered site, which attracts millions of Shia pilgrims annually, became a focal point for national mourning as citizens from across the country gathered to pay their final respects. 

Streets of Mashhad were adorned with posters of President Raisi, black flags, and religious symbols, particularly around his final resting place, underscoring the profound grief felt by the nation.

Earlier that day, tens of thousands of people lined the streets of Birjand, the capital of South Khorasan province, to bid farewell to the late president as his coffin moved through the main street. President Raisi had served as South Khorasan's representative in the Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting or dismissing Iran's leader.

The massive turnout highlighted the deep admiration for Raisi, remembered as a “devoted, sincere, and tireless president” in the Leader of Islamic revolution’s words.

Leader of Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, who announced five days of mourning for those who died in the crash, led prayers in Tehran on Wednesday for Raisi’s funeral.

Meanwhile, in Tehran, a similar wave of public emotion was evident at the funeral of Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian. Thousands filled the streets on Thursday, expressing both their sorrow and their steadfast support for Iran’s leadership and policies. 

Iranian officials and foreign dignitaries also paid their respects to the late diplomat at the ceremony before the burial.

Amir Abdollahian was honored for his dedication and significant contributions to Iran's foreign policy, being described as a “studious and active foreign minister” who played a key role on the international stage.

The late Foreign Minister was laid to rest at the shrine of Shah Abdol-Azim in the town of Shahr-e Rey.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani commented on the large gatherings and numerous messages of condolence from around the world on his X account, emphasizing that the overwhelming participation symbolized Iran’s strong global position and the resilience of its people. “Under the guidance of our wise Leader Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei and the collective strength of our great nation, there will be no disruption in Iran’s progress and its constructive role in regional and international affairs,” Kanaani stated.

Kanaani’s remarks underscored the sentiment of national endurance and institutional stability. He highlighted that despite the significant loss, Iran’s foreign policy and diplomatic efforts would continue unabated, rooted in the ideals of the Islamic Republic’s founding figures and constitutional principles. 

“The loss of Amir Abdollahian is certainly a blow to our diplomatic system, but the Islamic Republic is built on enduring institutions and principled approaches that transcend individual contributions,” he said.

The funerals served not only as a testament to the personal legacies of Raisi and Amir Abdollahian but also as a demonstration of Iran’s unity and resolve to the international community. The large public turnout reflected a nation determined to uphold its sovereignty and continue its path of growth and influence.

As Iran navigates this period of mourning, the legacy of its late senior officials is expected to inspire continued dedication to the nation’s goals and ideals. The unity displayed during these ceremonies sends a clear message: Iran remains steadfast and resilient, ready to face future challenges with unwavering strength and solidarity.

By Sadegh Fereydounabadi