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Thousands Mourn Khamenei in Najaf; Iraq Declares Holiday

7/8/2026

43 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Thousands of mourners flooded Najaf as security forces sealed main roads to the Imam Ali Shrine.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s body arrived at Najaf International Airport and will travel to Karbala before burial in Mashhad, Iran.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi declared Wednesday a public holiday.
Popular Mobilisation Forces fighters and volunteer groups cordoned key junctions, provided water and food, and displayed banners praising Khamenei.

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Story summary

Thousands of mourners flooded Najaf as security forces sealed main roads to the Imam Ali Shrine.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s body arrived at Najaf International Airport and will travel to Karbala before burial in Mashhad, Iran.
Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Al Zaidi declared Wednesday a public holiday.
Popular Mobilisation Forces fighters and volunteer groups cordoned key junctions, provided water and food, and displayed banners praising Khamenei.