Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, was killed in a joint US-Israel strike on 28 February, which marked the start of the conflict in the Middle East and Gulf region. However, 100 days after his death, he has still not been buried. The delay has led to speculation around the world, especially as several other senior Iranian commanders who were killed in the same strikes have already been laid to rest.
According to Iranian officials, Tehran wants to organise a large funeral procession for Khamenei across several cities. However, with the war still ongoing, arranging such a major public event could create security risks for Iran’s leadership and the people attending.
Although Shiite Islamic traditions generally encourage a quick burial, exceptions can be made under special circumstances.
Concerns Over Security of Successor Mojtaba Khamenei
Another reported reason for the delay is concern for the safety of Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba Khamenei, who is said to have succeeded him as Supreme Leader. Reports suggest Mojtaba was seriously injured, and Iranian authorities fear his life could be at risk if he appears at a public funeral.
Since being named as the next Supreme Leader, Mojtaba has not made any public appearances. However, Iran continues to maintain that he survived the attack.
Questions Over Iran’s Leadership Structure
The continued delay in Khamenei’s burial has also raised questions about decision-making within Iran’s leadership. International observers are closely watching developments in Iran, including the stability of its leadership, succession plans, and the possible impact on the political balance of the Middle East.
Historically, funerals of senior Iranian officials have been major political events. For example, the funeral of former Revolutionary Guards commander Qassem Soleimani became a multi-day national event. The procession travelled through several cities in Iraq and Iran before he was buried in Kerman.
Iranian state media presented the funeral as a symbol of national unity.
According to local media reports, authorities may want to organise a similar large-scale event for Khamenei. However, logistical and security challenges are believed to be the main reasons for the delay in his burial.
First published on: Jun 08, 2026 11:33 AM IST
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