Iran is preparing a state-funded and honour-laden funeral ceremony for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, which is expected to last three days following his reported death during Israeli-American strikes at the start of the conflict on 28 February.
According to Iranian officials, the funeral ceremony will be held with full state honours and is expected to take place after a delay caused by the ongoing war.
Death during airstrike reported
Khamenei, who led the Islamic Republic for nearly 37 years, reportedly died at the age of 86 during an airstrike on his residence in central Tehran.
The original funeral date set for 4 March was postponed due to escalating hostilities in the region.
Large-scale public mourning planned
Tehran deputy mayor Mohammad-Amin Tavakolizadeh stated that a three-day national ceremony has been planned, including official honours and large-scale public participation.
He said the main ceremony in Tehran would last at least 24 hours and could attract between 15 and 20 million people, according to Iranian state media reports.
Burial locations and timeline
The funeral ceremony is expected to take place in Tehran, as well as in the holy cities of Qom and Mashhad, where Khamenei is expected to be laid to rest.
No exact date has been confirmed, although officials indicated it may take place around the month of Muharram, in mid-June.
Political developments after his death
Iranian media reports also claim that Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who succeeded him in early March, has not appeared publicly following injuries sustained in an attack and is communicating only through written statements.
Further details remain unclear as Iran continues to navigate the aftermath of the conflict and leadership transition.
Source: CNA
Also read: US neutralise tanker attempting to break Iran blockade
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel
