Iran Postpones Ceremony for Late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Tehran: Iran has postponed a major farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in joint air strikes by Israel and the United States, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency.

Officials cited logistical reasons for the delay, including requests from people across several provinces who want to attend the ceremony in Tehran. The event was earlier scheduled to begin at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall and continue for three days.

Authorities expect millions to participate in the mourning ceremonies, raising security concerns amid ongoing conflict with Israel and the US. Iran is also preparing for the selection of a new supreme leader following Khamenei’s death.

Senior cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami said the country is close to identifying a successor, with the Assembly of Experts responsible for appointing the next leader. Among the potential contenders is Mojtaba Khamenei, the late leader’s son.

Meanwhile, Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that any future Iranian leader who continues policies hostile to Israel could become a target. US President Donald Trump also commented on the future leadership in Iran following Khamenei’s assassination.(AJ)