'Iranians will never forget': Iran formally thanks India for standing in solidarity at Ali Khamenei’s funeral

The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in India has issued a message of gratitude to the Indian government, its official delegation, political figures, and citizens, following their participation in the state funeral of the late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei.

In an official statement shared publicly, the Iranian embassy called India's presence during the period of intense national mourning as a powerful demonstration of diplomatic solidarity, asserting that the gesture has permanently strengthened the centuries-old, civilisational bond between New Delhi and Tehran.

"The people of Iran will never forget this gesture of friendship, compassion, and heartfelt respect," the embassy stated. "They regard it as a precious testament to the enduring ties... and as a valuable foundation for further strengthening the longstanding friendship between our two countries."

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A broad and diverse Indian presence

Amid reported diplomatic pressures on international partners regarding participation, New Delhi sent a high-level official delegation directly to the heavily fortified Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla complex in Tehran to pay their respects.

The Indian government was officially represented by Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita and Bihar Governor Syed Ata Hasnain. The leaders stood alongside global dignitaries to convey deep condolences on behalf of the government and the people of India.

In addition to the official delegation, the funeral ceremonies saw participation from across India's political spectrum. Senior Congress leader and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid represented his party, while Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti also attended, expressing solidarity with the Iranian people and praising the warmth and hospitality of Iranian officials during a period of profound national mourning, among others.

The massive, six-day state funeral procession, running from July 4 to July 9 across key spiritual hubs including Tehran, Qom, Najaf, and Mashhad, has drawn millions of local mourners into the streets.