Iraq issues commemorative stamp for martyred Leader
Iraq issued a commemorative postage stamp on Wednesday to mark the funeral ceremonies for Iran's martyred Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, as mourners and senior officials from two countries, Iran and Iraq, gathered in the holy cities of Najaf and Karbala, according to Iraq's Ministry of Communications.
The special stamp, unveiled by Iraqi Communications Minister Mustafa Jabbar Sanad, commemorates one of the largest religious and state ceremonies held in Iraq in recent years and reflects Baghdad's decision to preserve the occasion in the country's historical record. The funeral ceremonies began in Najaf on July 8 before continuing to Karbala under extensive security and logistical arrangements.
"The commemorative stamp has been issued to honor the grand funeral ceremony that Iraq is witnessing," Sanad said, describing it as a symbol of recording the event in Iraq's national memory.
The ministry said the postal issue was intended to memorialize the ceremony and underscore its historical significance.
The body of Ayatollah Khamenei and several members of his family arrived at Najaf International Airport late on July 7, where they were formally received by senior Iranian and Iraqi officials. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian headed the Iranian delegation, while Iraqi Prime Minister Ali Falih al-Zaidi led the Iraqi reception alongside political, religious and tribal figures.
The funeral procession drew large crowds of Iraqi citizens, pilgrims and visitors, with prominent Iraqi political leaders, including members of the Coordination Framework, joining the ceremonies.
Commemorative stamps have long been used by governments to mark defining national, historical and cultural events. Iraq has previously issued special postal releases to commemorate major religious occasions and milestones, with the latest edition highlighting the significance Baghdad has attached to the funeral ceremonies held in the country's revered Shia holy cities.