Iran Prepares for Funeral of Former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei Three Months After His Death

Iranian authorities have commenced preparations for the funeral of the former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, who reportedly died on February 28. The ceremony was initially slated for early March but has been indefinitely postponed, with no official reason provided for the delay.

According to state television, a special general staff has been formed to organize the event, with various organizations mobilized. Mohsen Mahmoudi, director of the Tehran Coordination Islamic Council, is overseeing the arrangements. Mahmoudi described the planned funeral as a "grand ceremony, with the presence of a large audience," suggesting it will be an event of national significance.

Ali Khamenei, aged 86, served as the leader of the Islamic Republic for over 36 years. He was succeeded by his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, in early March. The successor has not appeared publicly since then, reportedly due to injuries sustained in bombings, and communicates only through written messages.

Thousands of Iranians paid tribute to Ali Khamenei in April, marking the customary 40-day mourning period. However, his official funeral ceremony has not yet taken place, despite a ceasefire that went into effect on April 8.

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a grand ceremony, with the presence of a large audience