Iran Begins Funeral Procession for Ali Khamenei Amid Security Warnings and Uncertainty Over Mojtaba's Appearance

Iran is preparing for the multi-day funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli operation named "Operation Roaring Lion." President Masoud Pezhkian has urged large public participation in the funeral events, while an Iranian army general warned the U.S. and Israel against any attacks during the procession.

Iran has also issued maritime warnings for vessels to follow designated routes through the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the U.S. has deployed a second Marine unit of over 2,000 troops to the Middle East. Diplomatic talks between Iran and Qatar in Doha have been paused ahead of the funeral, though Qatar reported "positive progress" in negotiations.

A key question surrounding the funeral is whether Mojtaba Khamenei, the new Supreme Leader and son of Ali Khamenei, will appear publicly. Mojtaba was reportedly severely injured in the same strike that killed his father and lost his mother and wife. Since the war began in late February, he has remained hidden, communicating only through written statements without showing his face or voice. Iranian sources claim he is recovering and leading Tehran's negotiations with Washington.

Mojtaba's public appearance would be a defining moment to establish his legitimacy, while his absence would raise doubts about his health and who is truly running the country. He did not attend a private memorial for his wife on Wednesday. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned of a swift and strong response to any threats against the leadership, following Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's recent threats.

Inside Iran, questions about Mojtaba's presence remain. The funeral organizer, Ali Akbar Forujmeshidian, declined to confirm Mojtaba's attendance, stating the decision lies solely with the Supreme Leader's office. Foreign dignitaries expected at the funeral include senior officials from China, India, Pakistan, as well as Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Georgian President Mikheil Kavlashvili, and two senior Taliban figures from Afghanistan.