Iran plans funeral ceremonies for slain Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei across Iran and Iraq

Funeral ceremonies for the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei are planned across Iran and Iraq between July 4 and July 9, months after his reported death.

The significant delay in holding the services has fueled speculation about the condition of his son and successor, and drawn criticism from opponents who suggest the state is attempting to artificially boost attendance figures. Iraq has confirmed that funeral processions will take place in the holy Shiite cities of Najaf and Karbala, south of Baghdad.

According to a schedule released by Iran's semi-official Fars News Agency, a tribute ceremony for foreign dignitaries is set for July 3 in Tehran. Public farewell ceremonies will follow on July 4 and 5 at the Imam Khomeini Mosalla in the capital, with a funeral procession planned for July 6.

Further ceremonies are scheduled for July 7 in Qom, July 8 in Najaf and Karbala, and July 9 in Mashhad. Mashhad, considered Iran's Shiite spiritual capital and Khamenei's hometown, will be his final resting place at the Shrine of Imam Reza, one of the holiest sites in Shiite Islam.