Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir will visit Tehran on Monday as Islamabad continues its efforts to facilitate peace and security talks between Iran and the United States, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said on Sunday.

According to a statement issued by Iran’s Foreign Ministry, Munir’s visit is part of Pakistan’s broader diplomatic efforts to strengthen regional peace and security. The trip comes at a sensitive time as Islamabad attempts to support negotiations between Tehran and Washington aimed at ending the ongoing conflict between Iran and the US.

Munir’s Tehran visit

Baghaei confirmed that the Pakistan Army chief is scheduled to travel to Tehran on Monday but did not provide further details about the duration of the visit or the meetings planned during his stay.

Munir’s visit is significant because Pakistan has increasingly positioned itself as a potential intermediary between Iran and the United States. Islamabad maintains relations with both countries and has sought to use those diplomatic channels to encourage dialogue.

The visit is expected to focus on regional security and the ongoing diplomatic efforts surrounding the Iran-US conflict.

Pakistan takes mediation role

Pakistan has been working to support negotiations between Tehran and Washington as tensions between the two countries continue to pose wider risks to the region.

Islamabad has repeatedly emphasised the importance of dialogue and diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. Its geographical position and longstanding ties with Iran give Pakistan a direct interest in maintaining stability along its western border.

At the same time, Pakistan has strategic relations with the United States, allowing Islamabad to maintain communication with both sides.

Regional security concerns

The conflict between Iran and the US has raised concerns about its potential impact beyond the two countries. Any further escalation could affect neighbouring states, energy supplies, trade routes and overall security across West Asia.

For Pakistan, stability in Iran is particularly important because the two countries share a long border. Islamabad has also faced security challenges in its western regions, making regional stability a major concern.

Munir’s visit therefore comes not only in the context of Iran-US negotiations but also amid broader efforts to prevent the conflict from spreading.

What Pakistan hopes to achieve

Pakistan’s involvement reflects Islamabad’s attempt to play a more active diplomatic role in regional affairs. While it remains unclear what specific proposals Munir will carry to Tehran, the stated objective is to support peace and security talks.

The success of Pakistan’s mediation efforts will ultimately depend on whether Tehran and Washington are willing to reach a broader understanding. For now, Munir’s planned visit signals that Islamabad intends to remain engaged in efforts to bring the two sides back towards dialogue.

Araqchi said communication was continuing through intermediaries. He added that a separate Iran-Oman arrangement concerning shipping through thewas approaching completion.

However, the proposed arrangement alone would not result in the complete reopening of the strategically important waterway. Shipping through Hormuz has remained severely disrupted amid the continuing regional conflict.

 The prolonged absence of Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei from public view has reportedly become one of the highest-priority intelligence concerns for the United States and Israel, with reports claiming that both the CIA and Mossad are actively trying to determine his location and operational status.

According to reports citing Western intelligence sources, Mojtaba Khamenei has remained out of the public eye for nearly five months after assuming Iran's highest political and religious office in March 2026, following the reported death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, during a US-Israeli strike on Tehran's leadership compound.

Since taking over, Mojtaba has not delivered a televised address, appeared at public events or engaged in conventional official communications, creating uncertainty over his whereabouts and the extent of his control over Iran's leadership.

Intelligence Agencies Face Tracking Challenges

Reports indicate that American and Israeli intelligence agencies have struggled to trace Mojtaba Khamenei because of an unusually strict security protocol.

Unlike previous Iranian leaders, he is believed to avoid using mobile phones, computers and other digital communication devices. Intelligence officials quoted in international media claim that he relies on handwritten messages delivered through trusted couriers associated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

The absence of electronic communications has significantly limited intelligence agencies' ability to intercept messages or monitor his movements.

Underground Bunker Speculation

Security analysts believe Mojtaba Khamenei may be operating from a heavily fortified underground command facility in Tehran or from a network of secure locations near the religious city of Qom.

Some former intelligence officials have also suggested that Iran could be employing elaborate deception measures, including the use of security decoys, to conceal the Supreme Leader's location.

His continued disappearance from public life has also sparked speculation regarding his health following the military strike that reportedly killed his father earlier this year.

Although US intelligence assessments reportedly indicate that Mojtaba remains alive and continues to exercise authority, rumours persist that he may have suffered injuries during the attack.

Leadership Questions Continue

Questions over Iran's leadership intensified after Mojtaba skipped the country's traditional Nowruz address in March, choosing instead to release a brief written statement through official communication channels.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has publicly stated that he has personally met the Supreme Leader, although intelligence agencies reportedly remain uncertain about when and where those meetings occurred.

The lack of visual confirmation has fuelled continued speculation among international observers regarding the functioning of Iran's political leadership.

IRGC Playing Larger Role

The reports come at a time of continuing geopolitical tensions involving Iran, including concerns over nuclear infrastructure, regional security and maritime activity around the Strait of Hormuz.

Analysts believe Mojtaba's rise to power received strong backing from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, which has assumed an increasingly prominent role in military decision-making and internal security during his absence from public life.

Western governments are closely monitoring whether the IRGC has gained greater influence over Iran's strategic and defence policies while the Supreme Leader continues to operate under extraordinary secrecy.

Growing International Attention

The unusual level of secrecy surrounding Iran's highest office has made Mojtaba Khamenei one of the most closely watched figures in international intelligence circles.

While Iranian authorities have maintained that the country's leadership remains fully functional, the absence of public appearances has continued to generate speculation about decision-making inside Tehran and the balance of power between civilian institutions and the military establishment.

Officials in Washington and Tel Aviv have not publicly commented on the reported intelligence operations, but analysts believe developments surrounding Iran's leadership will remain under close international scrutiny amid ongoing regional tensions.

Iran has reportedly turned down a ceasefire proposal put forward by the United States and conveyed through Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi, according to a report by The New York Times. The development comes amid growing military tensions between Washington and Tehran and increasing concerns over the possibility of a wider conflict in West Asia.

The report, citing Iranian and Iraqi officials familiar with the discussions, said al-Zaidi delivered the proposal during his official visit to Tehran on Thursday. The visit followed his recent meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House.

While the full details of the proposed ceasefire have not been made public, the report said Tehran rejected the offer because it failed to address one of Iran's key concerns—the issue of control over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most strategically important maritime routes for global oil shipments.

Iraqi PM Acts as Diplomatic Messenger

According to the report, Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi carried what was described as the only ceasefire proposal currently on the table between Washington and Tehran.

His visit marked his first official trip to Iran since taking office in May 2026. Accompanied by a high-level ministerial delegation, al-Zaidi held talks with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, focusing on bilateral relations, regional security, and efforts to prevent further escalation across West Asia.

Both governments also reviewed the implementation of earlier cooperation agreements covering trade, energy, transportation, and regional connectivity.

Strait of Hormuz Remains Key Sticking Point

Officials cited in the report said Iran's primary objection was that the ceasefire proposal did not address the future status or security arrangements concerning the Strait of Hormuz.

The narrow waterway is one of the world's busiest energy corridors, with a significant portion of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas exports passing through it each day.

Control and security in the Strait have long been central issues in Iran's strategic calculations and have frequently been at the centre of tensions between Tehran and Western powers.

High-Level Meetings in Tehran

During his visit, al-Zaidi also met with several senior Iranian leaders, including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, and other officials involved in regional diplomacy.

According to Iranian media reports, discussions extended beyond the ceasefire proposal to include economic cooperation, regional stability, and strengthening bilateral ties between Iran and Iraq.

The meetings underscored Baghdad's continuing efforts to maintain communication with both Washington and Tehran amid escalating regional tensions.

Concerns Over Wider Regional Conflict

The New York Times, citing two anonymous Iranian officials, reported that Tehran is preparing for the possibility of a broader military confrontation if the United States expands its military operations against Iran.

According to the report, Iranian officials warned that any further attacks on Tehran or critical infrastructure could trigger a wider regional response.

The officials reportedly indicated that Iran could expand military operations to include strikes on Tel Aviv and could seek support from Yemen's Houthi movement to disrupt shipping through the Bab al-Mandab Strait, another strategically important maritime chokepoint connecting the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

These reported remarks have not been independently verified.

Casualties and Escalating Tensions

Iranian authorities said on Wednesday that the ongoing US strikes had resulted in 53 deaths and 592 injuries.

Tensions between the United States and Iran have risen sharply over the past two weeks following President Donald Trump's announcement on July 8 that the ceasefire framework outlined in last month's US-Iran memorandum of understanding was no longer in effect.

Since then, diplomatic efforts to restore calm have continued alongside heightened military activity, raising concerns among regional and international observers about the risk of further escalation.

With Iran reportedly rejecting the latest ceasefire proposal, uncertainty remains over whether fresh diplomatic initiatives can prevent the conflict from expanding across the region.

Regional tensions intensified on Wednesday after Iran launched missiles toward Jordan, Bahrain, and Kuwait in the aftermath of recent US military strikes. Jordan's armed forces said their air defence systems successfully intercepted several incoming missiles, preventing casualties and damage, as the United States reiterated its willingness to pursue diplomacy while warning that it would continue to defend its interests and allies.

According to Jordan's state-run Petra News Agency, the country's air defence systems detected six missiles launched from Iranian territory. Military officials said four missiles were intercepted after entering Jordanian airspace, while the remaining two landed in remote, uninhabited areas without causing injuries or property damage.

Jordan's military confirmed that no casualties or material losses were reported and stated that security agencies continue to monitor the situation closely.

Regional Security Concerns Rise

The missile launches came amid heightened tensions across the Middle East following recent US strikes targeting Iranian-linked facilities. Although authorities in Bahrain and Kuwait have not immediately reported any direct damage, regional security agencies remain on high alert amid fears of further escalation.

The latest developments have prompted concerns about the potential for a broader regional conflict, with Gulf nations closely monitoring the evolving security situation.

Rubio: US Ready for Diplomacy

Speaking during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, Philippines, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington remains prepared to engage in diplomatic talks with Tehran but questioned Iran's willingness to negotiate.

"Our biggest problem right now is that they're not serious about negotiating. If they are serious, we will be too. If not, we will do whatever is necessary to protect our interests and the interests of our allies," Rubio said.

His remarks underscored the Biden administration's position that diplomacy remains the preferred path, provided Iran demonstrates a genuine commitment to negotiations.

Diplomatic Window Remains Open

Despite the exchange of military actions, US officials continue to maintain that diplomatic engagement remains possible. However, Washington has also indicated that it will respond decisively to threats against American personnel, military assets, and allied nations in the region.

The latest missile incident highlights the fragile security environment in the Gulf, where any further escalation could have significant implications for regional stability, global energy markets, and international diplomacy.

International Community Watching Closely

The growing confrontation between the United States and Iran has drawn international attention, with several countries urging restraint and calling for renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent a wider conflict.

Security analysts note that continued military exchanges risk increasing instability across the Middle East, making diplomatic engagement increasingly critical in the coming days.

A state funeral meant to project national unity after the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei instead exposed deep political divisions within the country's leadership. During funeral ceremonies attended by thousands, President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi faced hostile slogans and public criticism from hardline supporters who accused the government of compromising with the United States.

The confrontation comes amid heightened uncertainty over Iran's future political direction following Khamenei's death during the US-Israel military strikes on 28 February 2026 and the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as his successor.

Funeral Turns Into Political Flashpoint

As President Pezeshkian walked alongside Khamenei's coffin during funeral proceedings, sections of the crowd reportedly chanted slogans such as "Death to the compromiser," expressing anger over the government's attempts to pursue a diplomatic understanding with Washington.

The incident reflected growing tensions between Iran's elected leadership and influential hardline factions, many of whom believe the government has shown weakness toward the United States instead of pursuing retaliation following Khamenei's assassination.

Funeral ceremonies were held across Tehran, Mashhad, Qom, and parts of Iraq, drawing large numbers of supporters of the Islamic Republic.

Foreign Minister Also Targeted

Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, who had played a key role in negotiations with the United States before the reported collapse of the proposed agreement, also faced protests during the ceremonies.

According to reports, some hardline supporters accused him of betraying the country by engaging in talks with Washington. Media reports said objects were thrown in his direction, forcing security personnel to escort him away from the venue.

The criticism reflects broader opposition among conservative groups, who argue that any negotiations with the United States undermine Iran's strategic position following recent military confrontations.

Leadership Faces Pressure After Khamenei's Death

The death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei marked a major turning point in Iran's political landscape.

Although Mojtaba Khamenei was announced as the country's new Supreme Leader shortly after his father's death, he has remained largely absent from public events because of reported security concerns.

His limited public appearances have fuelled speculation about internal power dynamics, while hardline groups continue demanding a stronger response against the United States and Israel.

Calls for Revenge Intensify

During the funeral ceremonies, crowds reportedly raised anti-US slogans and demanded retaliation for Khamenei's killing.

Many hardline supporters argued that Iran's leadership should prioritize revenge instead of pursuing diplomatic engagement. Some speakers claimed any agreement with Washington contradicted the principles laid down by the late Supreme Leader.

The reported collapse of the proposed peace understanding has further strengthened the position of conservative factions advocating a tougher national security approach.

Religious Figure Issues Threat

The political tensions escalated after Mohammad Ali Bakhshi, a religious singer known for his close association with Iran's conservative establishment, publicly warned President Pezeshkian during the funeral events.

In remarks widely circulated on social media, Bakhshi said the government must fulfil the directives of the country's leadership and warned of serious consequences if it failed to do so.

The statement drew criticism from several observers but, according to reports, no official action has been taken against him.

Iran Enters a New Political Phase

The events surrounding Khamenei's funeral underscore the challenges facing Iran's leadership as it navigates succession, domestic political rivalries and heightened regional tensions.

While the government continues to balance security concerns with diplomatic considerations, hardline groups remain influential and continue to push for a more confrontational approach toward the United States.

With questions over leadership, foreign policy and internal political stability remaining unresolved, the coming months are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Iran's post-Khamenei future.

A Russian Tu-214PU airborne command-and-control aircraft, often referred to as a "Doomsday" command aircraft, landed at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini International Airport on Monday, drawing international attention as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate following recent US military strikes.

Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft, operated by Russia’s Rossiya Special Flight Squadron under the callsign RSD420, flew across the Caspian Sea before entering Iranian airspace. The route avoided much of the region’s congested airspace, adding to speculation over the mission’s significance.

The arrival comes amid a deteriorating security situation in the Middle East, where the United States and its allies have intensified operations targeting Iranian missile facilities, air defence systems and drone infrastructure following recent attacks linked to regional maritime security.

Specialised Military Command Platform

Unlike conventional government aircraft, the Tu-214PU (Punkt Upravleniya) serves as an airborne command post for Russia’s senior political and military leadership. The aircraft is equipped with encrypted communication systems, satellite connectivity and anti-jamming technology, allowing top officials to maintain secure command and control during military conflicts or national emergencies.

Its primary role is to provide uninterrupted communication capabilities in situations where ground-based command infrastructure could be compromised.

The aircraft is operated by the Rossiya Special Flight Squadron, which is responsible for transporting Russia’s highest-ranking government officials.

Visit Sparks Strategic Speculation

The deployment has attracted significant attention because the Tu-214PU is generally reserved for high-level government or defence-related missions rather than routine diplomatic travel.

Defence analysts believe the aircraft's presence in Tehran may indicate confidential discussions between senior Russian and Iranian officials as both countries continue expanding strategic and military cooperation.

The aircraft's advanced communication capabilities also enable secure meetings with minimal risk of electronic surveillance or interception, making it suitable for discussions involving sensitive defence and security matters.

However, there has been no official indication that the aircraft is participating in any military operations.

Growing Russia-Iran Cooperation

Russia and Iran have strengthened defence, political and economic ties in recent years amid increasing geopolitical tensions and Western sanctions.

The two countries have expanded cooperation in areas including defence technology, energy, regional security and trade. Their relationship has gained additional strategic importance as conflicts across the Middle East and Eastern Europe continue to reshape global geopolitical alignments.

The latest development comes against the backdrop of heightened instability following renewed US military operations targeting Iranian military infrastructure.

No Official Statement Yet

Neither Moscow nor Tehran has issued an official statement explaining the purpose of the aircraft's visit.

The absence of formal confirmation has fuelled speculation among international observers, although analysts caution that the aircraft's arrival alone does not necessarily indicate direct military involvement or operational coordination.

Western governments and intelligence agencies are expected to closely monitor further military and diplomatic movements involving Russia and Iran as regional tensions remain elevated.

Regional Tensions Continue

The Middle East has witnessed increasing military activity in recent weeks following attacks on commercial shipping routes and subsequent US strikes targeting Iranian-linked facilities.

Against this backdrop, the arrival of one of Russia’s most secure government aircraft underscores the growing strategic significance of Moscow-Tehran engagement, even as officials on both sides remain publicly silent about the mission.

Whether the visit represents routine high-level diplomacy or signals deeper strategic consultations is likely to become clearer only after official statements or further developments emerge.

US President Donald Trump has issued one of his strongest warnings yet to Iran, declaring that the United States is prepared to launch a massive military response if Tehran attempts to assassinate him. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump claimed that retaliation orders have already been issued and that "1,000 missiles" are aimed at Iran, with thousands more ready to be launched if such an attack occurs.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran following recent military exchanges, diplomatic negotiations and continued concerns over security in the Middle East. Trump's statement has further intensified speculation over the future of US-Iran relations even as diplomatic channels remain active.

Trump Issues Stark Warning

In his social media post, Trump said the United States has already prepared contingency plans in case Iran targets him. He warned that Iran would be "completely destroyed" if an assassination attempt were carried out.

The comments reflect ongoing concerns within US security agencies over alleged Iranian threats against Trump, stemming from the 2020 US drone strike that killed Iranian military commander Major General Qassem Soleimani near Baghdad International Airport.

Military Movements Raise Questions

Amid the heightened rhetoric, Israeli media outlet Kan News reported that the United States has begun withdrawing 12 F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets from Israel. The aircraft had reportedly been stationed at Ovda Airbase since February and were involved in operations linked to Iran.

While the report has attracted international attention, US officials have not officially confirmed the withdrawal.

Diplomatic Talks Continue

Despite the sharp exchange of statements, diplomatic engagement between Washington and Tehran has not completely broken down.

US officials have indicated that technical-level discussions with Iran are expected to continue in an effort to preserve the broader understanding reached last month. However, no date has been announced for the next round of negotiations.

Iran has maintained that it continues to honour its commitments under the existing memorandum of understanding, while accusing Washington of violating previous agreements through military actions and sanctions.

Hormuz Remains a Key Flashpoint

The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the ongoing dispute. The United States has demanded that Iran publicly guarantee unrestricted passage for commercial vessels through the strategic waterway.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi travelled to Oman on Saturday for consultations regarding maritime security and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Oman has continued to play a mediating role between Washington and Tehran.

Meanwhile, the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has rejected Iranian claims of controlling shipping through the Strait, stating that hundreds of commercial vessels carrying millions of barrels of crude oil have safely passed through the corridor.

Regional Concerns Persist

The latest developments come as tensions continue across the region. Israel has reportedly carried out fresh military operations in southern Lebanon, while Iran has warned of a strong response to any future attacks on its strategic facilities.

Russia has criticised Western powers at the United Nations over support for recent US and Israeli military operations, while Qatar has urged all sides to continue negotiations and avoid further escalation.

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has also warned that any renewed confrontation between the United States and Iran could disrupt global oil supplies and increase volatility in international energy markets.

With military preparedness and diplomatic engagement unfolding simultaneously, the situation remains highly fluid as global powers closely monitor developments across the Middle East.

Iran has signalled cautious optimism over its recent memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the United States, even as the country mourns the death of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Senior Iranian officials acknowledged that implementing the agreement would be challenging but maintained that diplomacy remained possible despite deep differences between the two countries.

Speaking in Tehran on Monday, Iranian Parliament Speaker and senior negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf described the implementation of the US-Iran memorandum as "difficult, but possible." His remarks came during a meeting with Mohammad Darwish, head of Hamas' leadership council, who travelled to Iran to attend Khamenei's funeral ceremonies.

Meanwhile, Tehran witnessed one of the largest public gatherings in recent Iranian history as millions of mourners lined the streets for Khamenei's state funeral. The procession began from Tehran's Grand Mosalla Mosque, where the late leader had lain in state, before moving along a 10-kilometre route through the capital. Officials expect the ceremony to last up to 12 hours before the body is taken to the holy city of Qom for further religious rites and final burial.

The funeral drew top Iranian political, military and religious leaders, along with foreign delegations from across the region. Khamenei's sons also attended the funeral prayers, while mourners showered flowers on the coffin and carried red flags bearing slogans associated with calls for justice and resistance.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the funeral as more than a farewell, saying it represented a renewed commitment to continue Khamenei's political and ideological legacy. State media claimed the event had attracted millions of participants, calling it one of the country's largest public gatherings.

The funeral also reflected the continuing tensions in the region. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz warned that Israel would act against any future Iranian leader who sought the country's destruction. Separately, reports emerged of fresh Israeli military activity in southern Lebanon, where state media said explosions occurred during overnight operations.

In another development, reports suggested Pakistan could host the next round of US-Iran negotiations on July 11, although there has been no official confirmation from either Washington or Tehran.

Energy markets also remained in focus after OPEC+ announced its fifth consecutive monthly increase in oil production. Beginning in August, seven member countries will collectively raise output by 188,000 barrels per day as global crude prices continue to ease following the recent conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States.

Despite the diplomatic opening with Washington, Iranian leaders maintained a firm public stance. Earlier in the day, Ghalibaf described the MoU as a political achievement for Iran and the so-called "Axis of Resistance," while warning that Tehran would continue to resist external pressure.

The funeral ceremonies come at a critical moment for West Asia, where regional powers are balancing renewed diplomatic engagement with persistent security tensions. Analysts believe the implementation of the US-Iran understanding, combined with leadership changes in Tehran, could significantly influence the region's political and strategic landscape in the coming months.

Iran began the official state funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday, drawing massive crowds to Tehran's Grand Mosalla amid heightened regional tensions and continued uncertainty over the country's future diplomatic and security outlook.

The funeral, which commenced on July 3 and is scheduled to continue until July 9, has become one of the largest state ceremonies in Iran's recent history. Thousands of mourners dressed in black gathered at the Grand Mosalla, following Shia mourning traditions by beating their chests and chanting religious and political slogans. Many participants carried red flags, a symbol often associated in Shia tradition with martyrdom and calls for justice.

Iranian state officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje'i and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, attended the memorial ceremony. Images broadcast by Iranian media showed emotional scenes as mourners paid tribute to the late leader.

The funeral has also attracted international delegations from more than 100 countries. However, several major powers, including Russia, China, India and Türkiye, opted to send lower-level representatives instead of their top leadership.

The ceremonies are taking place under extraordinary security arrangements. Iranian authorities have significantly increased security across Tehran, deploying advanced air defence systems, restricting drone and private aircraft operations, and expanding public transport services to accommodate millions of visitors. Hotels, schools, mosques and sports complexes have also been opened to host mourners arriving from across the country.

According to the announced schedule, Khamenei's funeral procession will move through several locations before concluding with his burial in Mashhad near the Imam Reza Shrine, fulfilling what Iranian media describe as his final wish.

Meanwhile, developments surrounding the funeral have coincided with renewed diplomatic rhetoric between Tehran and Washington. Speaking during an event in the United States, President Donald Trump claimed that the US had given Iran "a week off" to complete the funeral ceremonies on humanitarian grounds before expecting Tehran to return to negotiations. Iranian authorities have not officially responded to those remarks.

Iranian officials, however, maintained a firm stance during the funeral proceedings. The country's Intelligence Ministry vowed that those responsible for Khamenei's death would eventually be held accountable, while senior officials reiterated their opposition to increased Western military activity in the Strait of Hormuz.

Regional developments also continued alongside the funeral. Israeli military operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank remained active, while humanitarian agencies reported rising casualties in the conflict. Lebanon's military confirmed it had dismantled unexploded ordnance in southern Lebanon, and France announced the deployment of specialised naval mine-clearing vessels to help secure commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

At the same time, reports suggested that maritime traffic through the strategically important waterway is gradually recovering following recent disruptions, although shipping analysts described the situation as fragile.

Observers note that beyond its religious significance, the week-long funeral also serves as a demonstration of Iran's political resilience following the loss of its long-serving leader. The large public turnout and participation of international delegations are widely being viewed as an effort by Tehran to project stability at a time of heightened geopolitical uncertainty.

With funeral ceremonies continuing until July 9, attention will remain focused on both Iran's internal transition and the broader regional developments that continue to shape West Asia's security landscape.

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Trump Says Iran Wants to Resume Talks as Khamenei Funeral Begins Under Tight Security

As Iran commenced week-long funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, US President Donald Trump claimed that Tehran is eager to return to negotiations with Washington following weeks of heightened military tensions.

Speaking during an event marking the launch of the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations, Trump said Iran was "dying to settle" and suggested that the United States had deliberately eased diplomatic pressure to allow the funeral proceedings to take place.

"We gave them a week off for a funeral because we're nice," Trump remarked, adding that Iran now wants to reach an agreement with the United States.

However, Iranian authorities have not publicly confirmed any renewed negotiations, and there has been no official response to Trump's latest comments.

Funeral Begins Amid Massive Security Arrangements

The funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei officially began on Saturday morning at Tehran's Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, where tens of thousands of mourners gathered hours before the gates opened.

Iranian state television broadcast images showing Khamenei's casket alongside those of several family members reportedly killed during the conflict. Large crowds carrying Iranian flags and red banners associated with calls for revenge filled the religious complex and surrounding streets.

Authorities have launched one of the country's largest security and logistical operations in recent years.

Among the measures announced:

• More than 2,500 ambulances and emergency teams deployed.

• Hundreds of drones and helicopters assigned for security monitoring.

• Public transport operating free for mourners.

• Airports temporarily closed during key funeral events.

• Millions of loaves of bread prepared for visitors attending ceremonies.

The funeral procession is expected to travel through several Iranian cities before Khamenei is buried in Mashhad on July 9, fulfilling his reported final wish to rest near the Imam Reza Shrine.

Mojtaba Khamenei Unlikely to Appear Publicly

Security concerns are expected to keep Iran's newly appointed Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, away from public funeral events.

Mohammad Eslami, a research fellow at the University of Tehran, told Al Jazeera that Israeli security threats make any public appearance by Mojtaba highly risky.

According to Eslami, there are concerns that Israel could attempt actions designed to derail any emerging diplomatic understanding between Tehran and Washington, making public appearances by senior Iranian leadership particularly sensitive.

Iranian authorities have not officially confirmed Mojtaba Khamenei's funeral schedule.

Diplomatic Tensions Continue

Even as funeral ceremonies dominate headlines, diplomatic tensions remain high.

Israel has rejected a report published by The New York Times claiming that the United States had warned Israeli officials against targeting Iranian negotiators. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office dismissed the report as "fake."

Meanwhile, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir travelled to Tehran to attend the funeral and held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Officials have not disclosed details of their discussions.

Qatar has also indicated that future rounds of US-Iran negotiations may resume after the funeral concludes, although no timetable has been officially announced.

Strait of Hormuz Slowly Returning to Normal

Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz is gradually recovering after recent disruptions caused by regional hostilities.

Shipping analytics firm Kpler reported that vessel movements remain below normal but have stabilized within expected operating levels. Analysts nevertheless describe the recovery as fragile, warning that geopolitical uncertainty continues to affect commercial shipping decisions.

A Nation in Mourning

The funeral marks the end of more than four decades of Ali Khamenei's leadership, during which he shaped Iran's military, political and religious institutions. Across Tehran, mourning ceremonies continue alongside heavy security deployments as officials prepare for several days of public tributes.

Whether Trump's remarks signal a genuine opening for renewed diplomacy or remain political rhetoric will likely become clearer after Iran's mourning period concludes and both governments indicate their next diplomatic steps.

The coffin of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was taken to the site in Tehran where he was killed in a US-Israel airstrike earlier this year, as Iran intensified preparations for his six-day state funeral. The visit to the assassination site was reportedly conducted without prior public announcement, according to Iranian state media.

Congress leader Salman Khurshid and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti were among the Indian political leaders who travelled to Tehran to pay their respects during the mourning ceremonies. Visuals released by the Iranian Embassy showed the two leaders offering tributes alongside senior Iranian officials and foreign delegations.

Iran has scheduled public farewell ceremonies from July 4 to July 9 across several cities, with Tehran hosting the opening events. The first day will allow members of the public to pay their final respects, while funeral prayers and a procession through the capital are planned before the coffin is taken to Mashhad for burial.

Iranian authorities estimate that between 12 million and 20 million people could participate in the funeral ceremonies, potentially making it one of the largest state funerals in the country's history. Representatives from more than 100 countries are expected to attend, with India, China, Russia, Türkiye, Bangladesh and several other nations sending official delegations.

Security has been tightened across Tehran ahead of the ceremonies. Police checkpoints, military deployments and traffic restrictions have been imposed in the capital, while public and private offices are scheduled to remain closed during key stages of the funeral. Iranian authorities have also announced partial airspace restrictions as part of the security arrangements.

Amid the mourning period, Qatar indicated that the next round of US-Iran talks could resume after the funeral concludes, signalling a possible revival of diplomatic engagement following months of heightened regional tensions.

Iran has also lodged a complaint with the United Nations, accusing Israel of threatening Supreme Leader-designate Mojtaba Khamenei. Separately, Tehran announced that inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would not be granted access to the Fordo, Natanz and Isfahan nuclear facilities, a move likely to increase international scrutiny over its nuclear programme.

The Strait of Hormuz also remained in focus, with Iran warning the United States against interference in the strategic waterway while directing commercial vessels to follow designated maritime routes. At the same time, shipping traffic through the strait has shown signs of recovery following the ceasefire between the United States and Iran, although volumes remain below pre-conflict levels.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for more than three decades, was killed in a US-Israel airstrike on February 28, according to Iranian authorities. His death marked a major turning point in the country's political leadership and has triggered one of the largest state mourning events in Iran's recent history.

Officials said the funeral ceremonies are intended to demonstrate national unity and resilience, while further diplomatic developments are expected after the conclusion of the mourning period.