Tehran: Iran’s Supreme Leader-designate Mojtaba Khamenei is unlikely to attend the state funeral of his father, the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, due to heightened security concerns, according to Iranian officials and media reports. Authorities fear that his public appearance could make him a potential target amid ongoing tensions with Israel.

Iran has begun week-long state funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei, whose body has been brought to Tehran for public homage. Millions of mourners are expected to participate in the ceremonies, which will conclude with his burial in Mashhad on July 9. The funeral is being held under one of the highest security deployments in Iran’s recent history.

Mojtaba Khamenei has not appeared in public since his father’s death, fueling speculation about his security and health. Reports suggest that Iranian authorities have advised him against attending the funeral, citing intelligence indicating possible assassination threats. However, no official evidence has been released regarding any specific plot.

The funeral has drawn delegations from several countries, including representatives from India, Russia, China and other nations. Indian political leaders and members of the official Indian delegation have also arrived in Tehran to pay their respects during the state mourning ceremonies.

Iranian authorities have placed Tehran and other major cities on high alert throughout the funeral period. Security agencies are monitoring the events closely as large crowds are expected to gather for one of the biggest state funerals in the country’s history.