Tehran has postponed a planned public ceremony to commemorate former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to Iranian state media, days after he was reportedly killed in joint air strikes by Israel and the United States.
Officials cited logistical challenges and large numbers of people from various provinces wishing to attend as reasons for delaying the event.
Authorities had initially announced that the farewell gathering would begin late at night at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall and continue for several days, allowing mourners to pay their respects.
The funeral process is expected to attract massive crowds, raising concerns about security amid ongoing tensions and the possibility of further attacks.
Historical precedents suggest large participation - with millions attending Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s funeral in 1989 - and authorities appear cautious about holding such a high-profile event under current circumstances.
Meanwhile, senior Iranian officials said efforts are underway to select a successor through the Assembly of Experts, the constitutional body responsible for appointing the supreme leader. Leaders indicated that the process is advancing despite the wartime environment.
Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, is widely viewed as one of the potential contenders for succession. Reports suggest he survived recent strikes targeting Iranian leadership circles.
However, Israel’s defence minister warned that any new Iranian leader promoting policies hostile to Israel or its allies would be considered a legitimate target. US President Donald Trump also weighed in, commenting on potential leadership scenarios.
Analysts say Iran’s institutional framework remains intact, with constitutional mechanisms in place to manage succession even during crisis conditions.
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