Uncertainty Surrounds Mojtaba Khamenei's Attendance at Ayatollah's Funeral Amid Health and Leadership Questions

The upcoming funeral of the late Ayatollah Khamenei, killed in a joint US-Israeli strike, raises a critical question: will his son and new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, appear to lead the ceremony? Mojtaba was reportedly seriously injured in the same attack that also killed his mother and wife. Since the war began in late February, he has remained in hiding, communicating only through written statements without revealing his face or voice.

Iranian sources have tried to project an image of his full recovery, claiming he is even managing Tehran's negotiations with Washington. His public appearance at the funeral would mark his first since the attack and help solidify his legitimacy as leader. Conversely, his absence would fuel doubts about his health and who is truly running the country.

On Wednesday, Mojtaba did not attend a private memorial for his late wife. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of a swift and strong response to any threats against Iranian leaders, following Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz's statement that Khamenei is "marked for death." Iran is expected to consider Mojtaba's absence a necessary security measure amid ongoing conflict, but it will leave many questions unanswered and deepen skepticism about his readiness to lead.

Inside Iran, questions about Mojtaba's presence are already emerging. When asked about his attendance, Ali Akbar Forgashidian, responsible for the funeral arrangements, deflected, stating the decision lies solely with the Supreme Leader's office.