As reported by The Times of Israel on July 9, 2026, an Iranian air force fighter jet escorted a plane carrying the bodies of slain Iranian leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and his family members as it returned to the Iranian city of Mashhad on Thursday for burial. The flight arrived after a funeral ceremony held in Iraq, marking the final stage of the procession before the burial. The military escort underscored the significance of the occasion as the aircraft made its journey back into Iranian territory carrying the remains of Khamenei and his relatives.
Upon landing at Mashhad Airport, large numbers of mourners had already assembled on the tarmac to receive the coffins. Emotional scenes unfolded as Khamenei’s coffin was carefully unloaded from the aircraft. Many in attendance were seen weeping openly while paying their final respects, creating a solemn atmosphere at the airport. The arrival marked a deeply symbolic moment for supporters who had gathered to witness the return of the former Iranian leader to his hometown.
The burial proceedings continued under tight security as officials and mourners observed the final moments of the funeral ceremonies. The return of the bodies to Mashhad concluded the journey from Iraq and brought the public ceremonies closer to their end. The emotional reception at the airport reflected the significance of the occasion for those gathered to honor Ali Khamenei and his family members before the burial….See More