Iran Prepares State Funeral for Khamenei Amid Escalating Hezbollah-Israel Conflict; U.S. Seizes $1 Billion in Crypto

Iran is reportedly making arrangements for a large-scale state funeral for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who died in an airstrike on February 28. State media reported on May 29 that a special committee has been formed to prepare for the ceremony, though an official date has not yet been announced. Khamenei led Iran for over three decades before his death. His son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who was reportedly injured in the same attacks and has not appeared publicly since assuming the role of supreme leader, is seen as a potential successor.

While a memorial service was held in April, the official state funeral was postponed due to ongoing conflict. Iranian authorities are said to be preparing the necessary conditions for a solemn event with broad public participation. The delay in the funeral has been attributed to the protracted conflict and the need to finalize organizational aspects.

Meanwhile, the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah announced on May 29 that it had launched 22 attacks against Israeli soldiers, vehicles, and military facilities. The group stated it used various weapons, including rockets, artillery, and drones, targeting Merkava tanks, military bulldozers, and an Iron Dome launcher near Ras an-Naqoura. These attacks occurred in several locations in southern Lebanon, including Haddatha, Yohmor al-Shaqif, Biyyada, and Naqoura.

Fighting has intensified despite a ceasefire announced on April 17. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces had crossed the Litani River, located about 30 kilometers north of the border, and advanced further into Lebanese territory. In a separate development, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on May 29 that the U.S. had seized approximately $1 billion in Iranian cryptocurrency, taking control of digital wallets containing the assets.

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I believe that we have seized about $1 billion in cryptocurrency. We simply took control of those wallets.