Speaking before Friday prayers in Mashhad, northeast Iran, Mostafa Feizi, the deputy custodian of Astan Qods Razavi, said: “Iran has entered Karamat Ten‑Day festivities while still grieving the events of the past year, particularly the martyrdom of the late Leader, Ayat. Seyyed Ali Khamenei”.
He prayed for the elevation of all martyrs of recent incidents.
Feizi highlighted the shrine’s long-standing role in supporting congregational worship, especially Friday prayers in Mashhad, where shrine servants offer extensive services.
“These efforts remain the most important mission of Astan Qods Razavi”, he said, expressing hope they continue until the reappearance of Imam Mahdi.
In light of recent events and the call for greater unity, Feizi noted: “This year’s central slogan “Iran of Imam Reza; united, powerful and victorious Iran” – serves as a foundation for national cohesion”.
He stressed that every activity within the shrine ultimately revolves around serving pilgrims. “Millions of visits during the past year and the extensive services provided for them, form the most valuable chapter of shrine activity”.
Feizi noted that the custodian has expanded service categories within the shrine, including the opening of Amir al‑Momenin Portico in Enghelab Eslami Courtyard and new sections of the underground Imam Hossein Portico.
He added that the shrine remains the country’s leading center for Quranic programs through its numerous initiatives, including Mahd al‑Reza.
The deputy said the shrine’s guesthouse distributes more than ten million meals annually to pilgrims and residents of low‑income neighborhoods, and that volunteer shrine servants from across Iran support the shrine’s tea houses.
Feizi referred to the Karamat Razavi Foundation’s public‑benefit projects, including distributing 1,500 dowries, providing wheelchairs nationwide and supplying hearing aids for students in need.
He said the foundation was among the first to assist families of martyrs in crises such as the 12‑day war and the Ramadan war.
He announced three directives for honoring the Minab martyrs: facilitating pilgrimage for their families, establishing eight Shajareh Tayebeh Razavi schools in underserved areas, and constructing a distinguished memorial for their cemetery.