Iranians pray for slain supreme leader Khamenei in son’s absence

Tehran, Iran – Funeral ceremonies for Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who died at age 86 in an airstrike, continued for a second day with large crowds gathering in the capital. Officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian and Revolutionary Guards chief Ahmad Vahidi, joined mourners paying their respects at Tehran's Grand Mosalla religious complex.

However, the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader's son and widely considered successor, drew significant attention. Mojtaba has not appeared in public since his father's death and is reportedly wounded from the same attack that killed the elder Khamenei. The late leader's other three sons were present at the service.

Authorities expect over 10 million people to participate in the funeral processions planned for Monday. Strict security measures are in effect to manage the massive crowds, with reports indicating over 4,000 people visited medical centers near the Mosalla due to the heat and large numbers. The ceremonies are being held amidst a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East following a recent war with Iran.

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Killers must face punishment