Iran delays Khamenei funeral as US and Israeli bombardment continues
BBC World
March 4, 2026
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Iran has delayed the funeral ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, initially scheduled to begin on Wednesday night, due to the need for additional infrastructure preparations. The decision comes amid ongoing intense airstrikes by US and Israeli forces across Iran, which began after Khamenei's assassination in Tehran during the first wave of attacks. A senior official stated that the delay was necessary because of the overwhelming number of people requesting to attend the three-day event at Tehran's Grand Mosalla prayer complex.
Khamenei, who had been the spiritual and political leader of Iran for over three decades, was killed alongside his wife, an adult son, and several top officials. His death has sent shockwaves through the country, with state media showing supporters protesting against the US and Israeli attacks, while social media reports indicate that some opponents are celebrating in the streets. The Assembly of Experts, responsible for selecting Iran's new supreme leader, is reportedly "close" to making a decision, though no names have been publicly disclosed.
The delay in Khamenei's funeral highlights the chaotic situation in Iran as it grapples with both internal political transitions and an external military conflict. US and Israeli forces are expected to gain total aerial superiority over Iran within days, according to a senior official, who described the war as "unfair," emphasizing that the US is "punching them while they're down." Meanwhile, Iran has responded by launching missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf states with US bases.
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Originally published on BBC World on 3/4/2026