The state funeral of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was held in Tehran on Sunday, drawing thousands of mourners to the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla. While the ceremony was attended by three of Khamenei’s sons in a rare public appearance, one notable absence was his successor, Mojtaba Khamenei.
Footage broadcast by Iranian state television showed Mostafa, Masoud and Meysam Khamenei standing together behind their father’s coffin during the funeral prayers. The three brothers were also seen mourning beside the coffins of four other family members who were reportedly killed in the same attack.
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s coffin was draped in the Iranian flag and topped with his signature black turban. It was placed alongside the coffins of his daughter, son-in-law, infant granddaughter and another relative.
Ali Khamenei, who served as Iran’s Supreme Leader from 1989 until his death at the age of 86, was killed in an airstrike on February 28 after the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran. His funeral was held months later under tight security.
Mojtaba Khamenei missing from Father’s funeral
One of the biggest talking points of the funeral was the absence of Mojtaba Khamenei, who took over as Iran’s Supreme Leader after his father’s death.
According to reports, Mojtaba has not made a public appearance since assuming office in March. His absence from such a significant public event has drawn widespread attention.
Meanwhile, the appearance of Mostafa, Masoud and Meysam Khamenei marked one of the very few occasions on which the three brothers have been seen together in public.
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Who is Mostafa Khamenei?
Mostafa Khamenei, 64, is the eldest son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He is a Shiite cleric and has largely stayed away from active politics. Although he does not hold a government position, he is considered an influential figure within Iran’s religious establishment.
Who is Masoud Khamenei?
Masoud Khamenei, 52, is the third son of Ali Khamenei and is also a Shiite cleric.
He heads the Office for Preserving and Publishing Khamenei’s Works, which is responsible for preserving and promoting the speeches, writings and legacy of the late Iranian leader.
According to CNN, the office also manages a large media and propaganda network connected to several organisations.
Who is Meysam Khamenei?
Meysam Khamenei maintains a low public profile and is rarely seen at official events. Very little is publicly known about his role compared with his brothers.
His appearance at his father’s funeral alongside Mostafa and Masoud was one of the few times the three brothers appeared together publicly.
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First published on: Jul 05, 2026 11:58 PM IST
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