Iran to Hold 6-Day Funeral for Ali Khamenei; Son Mojtaba to Skip Ceremony

Iran announced that Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei will not attend the funeral ceremonies of his father, Ali Khamenei, because of serious security concerns.

Ayatollah Hakim Elahi, the representative of the Iranian Supreme Leader in India, stated that Israeli threats and constant surveillance created significant risks for Mojtaba’s public appearance. He explained that intelligence agencies could exploit the large public gathering to target Iran’s leadership during an extremely sensitive period. Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for thirty-six years, died on February 28 when the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran, triggering a broader conflict across the Middle East.

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The attacks marked a major turning point in regional tensions and intensified military confrontations between several countries. Iranian officials decided against an immediate burial despite Islamic traditions that usually require burial within twenty-four hours.

They explained that the ongoing war and security challenges made a longer funeral schedule necessary. The ceremonies will begin in Tehran on July 4, continue in the holy city of Qom on July 7, and conclude with Ali Khamenei’s burial in his hometown of Mashhad on July 9. Authorities expect millions of mourners to attend the six-day funeral, making it one of the world’s most closely watched state events. Workers have placed large posters, banners, and billboards across Iranian cities to honor the late leader.

Iran Invites Indian Delegation to Ali Khamenei’s Funeral

Reports indicate that Bihar Governor General Syed Hasnain, Minister of State for External Affairs Pavitra Margarita, and former external affairs minister Salman Khurshid will represent India during different funeral events. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the state funeral, although reports suggest the Prime Minister will probably not participate.

Meanwhile, Iran and the United States continue efforts to maintain a fragile peace despite recent military exchanges. Officials from Qatar and Pakistan recently hosted separate meetings with American and Iranian negotiators in Doha. They reported positive progress on issues related to the fourteen-point Memorandum of Understanding and expressed hope for greater regional stability.

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