Ali Khamenei’s body arrives at Tehran religious complex for funeral
The body of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei arrived at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla religious complex ahead of funeral prayers, according to Iranian state media.
The Ali Khamenei funeral marks the beginning of several days of mourning following his death in US-Israeli strikes.
Iranian authorities have planned funeral processions and memorial ceremonies across Tehran, Qom, Mashhad, and parts of Iraq.
Officials expect millions of people to participate in the events as a show of support for the Islamic Republic.
Religious leaders described the Ali Khamenei funeral as an important national event. Ayatollah Mohammad Saidi said the public turnout would demonstrate continued support for Iran’s political and religious leadership.
Authorities have arranged transportation, accommodation, and food for mourners expected to attend the ceremonies.
The funeral comes during a historic transition after Mojtaba Khamenei succeeded his father as Iran’s new Supreme Leader.
State media reported that Mojtaba was injured in the strike that killed Ali Khamenei and has not appeared publicly since the conflict began.
Also Read:Iran declares July 6 a public holiday for Khamenei's funeral
At the same time, US President Donald Trump said negotiations between Washington and Tehran are moving in a positive direction.
Speaking to CNBC, he said, “We’re negotiating ... I think they’ve agreed to just about everything we need.”
Trump reiterated that the United States is not seeking regime change in Iran. He said Washington’s primary objective remains preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
“We’re not looking for regime change. I’m looking for something very simple: they cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.
The US president also defended recent military strikes on Iran, saying the country had been “totally defeated militarily” while warning that further military action could be taken if necessary.
Qatari and Pakistani mediators said the next round of US-Iran negotiations is expected to take place as soon as possible after the funeral ceremonies conclude.
The talks are likely to resume after the national mourning period, which is scheduled to continue until July 9.
