In a somber display of national unity, Iran bid farewell to its late President Ebrahim Raisi, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash four days ago. The 63-year-old hard-line cleric was laid to rest in the holy shrine of Imam Reza, considered the holiest site in Iran. The burial ceremony, described as "historic" by state media, witnessed a massive turnout of mourners, with Mashhad's mayor estimating the attendance to be a staggering "three million."

The funeral procession, preceded by three days of ceremonies held across the country, saw Raisi's coffin being driven through the eastern city of Birjand, where he had served as the representative to the Assembly of Experts. Thousands of people turned out to pay their respects, reflecting the significant influence Raisi held within the religious establishment.

Leaders and dignitaries from Iran's allies and neighbors gathered in Tehran for a commemorative event on Wednesday. Notably absent were senior Western officials, highlighting the strained relations between their countries and Iran. Representatives of the so-called "Axis of Resistance," a loose network of armed groups supported by Iran, were also in attendance.

Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, led prayers for the deceased and expressed his sorrow over the loss while meeting with the speaker of Lebanon's parliament. Raisi's close relationship with Ayatollah Khamenei, who is the ultimate authority in Iran, had positioned him as a potential successor.

The funeral processions witnessed mixed emotions within the country. While thousands mourned Raisi's death, many others stayed at home or even celebrated the president's demise. Raisi had been despised by millions for his role in suppressing the "Woman, Life, Freedom" protests in 2022 and accusations of his involvement in the mass executions of political prisoners in the 1980s.

His presidency was marked by economic hardships and a direct military clash with Israel last month, raising concerns of a regional war. Despite criticisms, the government and state media portrayed the funeral processions as demonstrations of national unity.

As investigations into the helicopter crash continue, Iranian authorities are still attempting to determine the cause of the tragic accident. While the nation mourns the loss of its late president, concerns arise regarding the future leadership and the impact Raisi's death may have on civil society in Iran.