Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is reportedly not expected to attend the funeral of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, because of security concerns and alleged death threats.
According to media reports, officials believe a public appearance could put Mojtaba Khamenei at risk amid ongoing tensions in the region.
Reports quoting Ayatollah Hakim Elahi, the Supreme Leader’s representative in India, said security agencies advised him not to attend because they could not guarantee his safety.
The reports also claim that Mojtaba Khamenei had wanted to participate in the funeral and lead prayers. However, security officials reportedly warned that the current situation made such an appearance too dangerous.
The development comes at a time of heightened tensions between Iran and Israel, following recent threats against Iran’s leadership.
Iranian officials have strongly condemned those threats and warned that any attack on the country’s leadership would receive a firm response.
Iran has announced several days of funeral ceremonies, with thousands of mourners and foreign dignitaries expected to take part.
However, Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed whether Mojtaba Khamenei will be absent from the events.
