Lahore holds candlelight vigil in memory of Ayatollah Khamenei

 LAHORE: Members of the legal fraternity, civil society and people from different walks of life gathered at Lahore's GPO Chowk on Thursday to hold a peaceful prayer and candlelight vigil in memory of the late Iranian Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, paying tribute to his legacy and expressing solidarity with the people of Iran following his assassination in US and Israeli airstrikes.

The solemn gathering was marked by collective prayers for the eternal peace of Ayatollah Khamenei's soul and for his place in Jannat al-Firdaus, while participants lit candles as a symbol of respect, mourning and unwavering solidarity with the Iranian people.

The tribute ceremony was organised under the auspices of the Pakistan Global Initiative and was led by noted human rights activist and social leader Advocate Makhdoom Muhammad Waseem Qureshi.

Addressing the gathering, Qureshi paid glowing tribute to the late Iranian leader, describing his death as a profound sacrifice for his nation and its civilisation.

"The martyrdom of Ayatollah Khamenei stands as a monumental sacrifice for his nation and the preservation of Iranian civilization," Qureshi said. "Much like his noble ancestor, Imam Hussain (AS), he embraced martyrdom rather than surrender before the forces of falsehood. His sacrifice is a testament to resilience that will be remembered by the world for generations to come."

During his address, Advocate Qureshi also commended Pakistan's leadership for what he described as its proactive role during the recent regional tensions.

He specifically praised Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for their diplomatic efforts and Pakistan's role in facilitating mediation between Iran and the United States, saying the country's engagement reflected its commitment to promoting regional stability and lasting peace.