Prominent Iranian Official: Mojtaba Khamenei May Miss Father's Funeral Due to Security
Hakim Elahi, Iran's Supreme Leader's representative in India, stated Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Iranian Leader Ali Khamenei, is unlikely to appear publicly at his father's funeral due to security concerns. Elahi made these remarks before departing New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport for Tehran, explaining the decision is driven by security as Iran prepares for a week of mourning amid rising tensions with Israel. Elahi conveyed quotes from previous meetings in Iran with individuals close to Mojtaba Khamenei: "I was in Iran last week, and I met some friends of mine who met him. They said he wants to go out, and he wants to meet people, but the security services will not allow him to go out." He added: "They said: 'It is very dangerous, and we cannot provide him with security protection.' I don't think he will go out." Describing prevailing sentiments in Iran, Elahi noted the country has been in deep mourning since Khamenei's passing, with many supporters deeming his loss irreplaceable. Elahi confirmed people from across Iran and abroad are flocking to attend funeral ceremonies, expressing solidarity with the late leader. The rites are expected to draw massive crowds, demonstrating popular support for the Islamic Republic. Mourning events are anticipated to extend for several days, with processions organized in various cities before Khamenei is laid to rest. When asked about Israel's threats of further military operations, Elahi asserted Iran emerged from the conflict in a stronger position, stating: "Many countries were praising Iran and saying that Iran won the war. Iran is still very strong and ready to stand firm." The funeral ceremonies are underway amidst ongoing regional tensions. Tehran affirms international participation will proceed despite the current security situation. Iran had invited Mallikarjun Kharge, President of the Indian Congress Party, and former Indian Minister of External Affairs Salman Khurshid, to attend the official funeral of former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Khurshid will travel to Tehran as a Congress Party representative, carrying a condolence message from Kharge. Explaining his visit's importance, Khurshid highlighted India and Iran share a long historical relationship that should be reflected in challenging times. The funeral ceremonies for Leader Ali Khamenei begin today, July 3rd, in the capital Tehran, with official delegations from 30 countries participating. Khamenei's body is scheduled to lie in state on July 4th and 5th at "Tehran Mosalla," the country's largest religious and social complex, allowing mourners to pay final respects. On July 6th, a solemn funeral procession will traverse the capital's main streets before the body is transported to Qom, Iran's most prominent religious city, for memorial ceremonies there on July 7th. These ceremonies will conclude with burial on July 9th in his hometown of Mashhad.
