Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, preparations for his funeral are underway in Tehran. Photos released by the Supreme Leader's office show the coffin containing the deceased lying in a mourning hall adjacent to the Imam Khomeini Hussainiya. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Khamenei died on July 2, 2026. His funeral ceremonies are expected to last several days. According to the Associated Press, a powerful general who had been in hiding has appeared in public amid the preparations in Tehran. The general's name and position were not specified, but he is noted to be an important representative of Iran's military elite.
The photos show mourners gathered around the coffin, shedding tears. Also, a portrait of Khamenei and the Iranian flag are displayed in the window of a bookstore in Tehran. These images were taken by AP photographer Vahid Salemi.
Khamenei's death could further complicate the political situation in Iran. It is not yet known who will succeed him. The Assembly of Experts, which elects the supreme leader, must convene to appoint a new leader. Meanwhile, the struggle for influence between Iran's military and political elite may intensify.
According to the Associated Press, millions are expected to attend Khamenei's funeral. Security measures have been tightened in Tehran. Iranian authorities have mobilized additional police forces to maintain order during the funeral.
Khamenei had been Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989. He died at the age of 85. His death has caused a major resonance not only in Iran but across the Middle East. Leaders from around the world have sent condolences.
The emergence of the powerful general from hiding may signal a new phase in the struggle for power in Iran. Who this general is and what his political goals are remains unknown. However, his public appearance may indicate that Iran's military elite is trying to influence the process of selecting a new leader.
When the Associated Press published this story, the situation in Iran remained unstable. The question of who will succeed Khamenei is the focus of the international community. Iran's nuclear program, its regional influence, and international relations may change depending on the policies of the new leader.