Iran Orders Media Blackout on Political Disputes Ahead of Khamenei's Funeral

Ahead of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's funeral scheduled for Friday, Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a confidential directive to all media outlets. The order mandates a media blackout on internal political disputes and diplomatic developments for 48 hours to maintain a forced "national cohesion" during the "historic" event. Sensitive topics such as the implementation of the memorandum of understanding with Islamabad, the Strait of Hormuz issues, and developments in Lebanon are to be gradually removed from the news agenda.

The directive instructs media to cease coverage of the "destructive role of the Lebanese government" and external conflict resolutions, focusing solely on portraying Khamenei's persona and documenting popular solidarity. The council emphasized avoiding narratives of defeat or retreat and warned against amplifying internal factional conflicts that could polarize public opinion.

Security officials also clarified that if any aggression occurs from enemies during the mourning period, defensive actions will be coordinated alongside the grand funeral ceremonies. This move reflects the regime's intent to control the narrative and suppress dissent during a critical moment of national mourning.