Iran is preparing for the funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, more than four months after his death. The lengthy delay has raised questions about how Khamenei’s remains have been preserved, as Islamic tradition generally calls for prompt burial and discourages chemical embalming.
Security Operation
A massive security operation is underway ahead of the funeral, with the Basij militia and the IRGC involved in the preparations. The funeral is expected to be a significant event, with a large turnout of mourners and a show of strength by the Iranian authorities.
The schedule for the funeral includes public viewings on Saturday and Sunday in Tehran, followed by a funeral procession on July 6. Another procession is planned for the following day in Qom, one of Shiite Islam’s holiest cities.
International Representation
While senior Iraqi officials will attend the funeral, representation from other major powers will be limited. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian personally invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, but India will instead send a lower-level official delegation.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.