Iran announces funeral plans for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

Iranian authorities are preparing for a large-scale three-day public funeral for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was martyred on February 28 during US-Israeli attacks. Mohammad Amin Tavakolizadeh, Deputy Head of Cultural and Social Affairs at Tehran Municipality, said the funeral prayers and final rites are expected to take place “at the end of Dhul-Hijjah or the beginning of Muharram.” According to media reports, the main ceremonies in Tehran will continue for at least 24 hours, while additional funeral prayers will also be held in Mashhad and Qom. Tavakolizadeh said authorities are preparing for the attendance of 15 to 20 million people in the Iranian capital during the ceremonies. He further stated that, in accordance with Khamenei’s will and the wishes of his family, the former leader will be buried at the shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad. The Tehran Municipality official also noted that visitors from Pakistan, Afghanistan, India and Bangladesh are expected to participate in the funeral and burial ceremonies. Rubio says Iran ready for limited nuclear negotiations