The Joint Commemoration of Khamenei by Iran and Iraq Carries Profound Significance
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian posted in Arabic, expressing heartfelt gratitude to "the brother nation" Iraq for the grand farewell ceremony held in honor of Ayatollah Khamenei, which included warm reception and solemn send-off.
He stated that the bond between Iran and Iraq transcends geographical boundaries and neighborly relations, rooted deeply in shared history, common values, and a collective fate. He praised "generous and rightful Iraq" for demonstrating such loyalty.
Describing Iraq's Shia community as "generous and rightful" is entirely appropriate—both theoretically and practically, the foundation of Twelver Shia Islam lies in Iraq, while its later flourishing occurred in Iran.
This time, Khamenei will ultimately be buried in his hometown of Mashhad, where rests the shrine of Imam Reza—the only Shia Imam who lies buried in Iran, the eighth Imam.
Yet commemorating Khamenei in Iraq signifies placing his legacy within the centuries-long historical process that has shaped Shia political authority—a process still ongoing today.
The significance of these ceremonies extends far beyond historical or religious dimensions; otherwise, they would not have attracted such widespread attention.
The rare, deeply religious scenes witnessed by the Chinese public actually convey authentic contemporary political messages.
Iraq’s large-scale commemorative events demonstrate that despite years of sanctions, assassination attempts, and even this year’s war, Iran’s regional alliance network remains resilient on both political and social levels.
Amir-Abdollahian was absolutely right: the joint commemoration with Iraq reflects a unique bilateral relationship that cannot be measured or assessed merely through military capability or diplomatic agreements.
Khamenei’s grand funeral symbolizes Iran’s comprehensive influence across ideological, religious, military, and political domains—more crucial than ever at a time when Iran faces one of its most challenging historical periods.
Over recent years, Iran has lost strategic footholds in Syria, and its influence in Lebanon faces unprecedented pressure.
In Iraq, there are ongoing efforts to integrate the Shia militia group “Popular Mobilization Forces” into state institutions, aiming to weaken their ideological and organizational ties with Iran.
The rituals in Iraq are far more than mere acts of remembrance—they represent Iran’s attempt, through the aftermath of its leader’s passing, to rebuild a transnational political community amid mounting pressure on the regional order.
This community includes Pakistan, which has actively mediated U.S.-Iran negotiations, and Iraq itself—brother nation sharing the same Shia heritage and collective glory with Iran.
Khamenei’s funeral in Iraq not only narrates his legacy but also outlines the future of Iran’s regional influence.
After his death, Khamenei achieved something monumental—one that he might not have accomplished during his lifetime.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870194136579084/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.