Friday, July 17, 2026

Iran warns U.S., Israel against fresh attacks ahead of Khamenei funeral

Funeral processions for Mr Khamenei are scheduled to begin on July 4 in Tehran and conclude with his burial on July 9 in Mashhad.

• July 3, 2026
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei[Credit:CNN]

Iran has warned the United States and Israel against launching fresh attacks as the country prepares week-long funeral rites for its slain supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The warning comes amid heightened security and nationwide mourning following Khamenei’s death in airstrikes during the recent conflict.

Commander of Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central headquarters, Ali Abdollahi, issued the warning in a statement carried by state media.

He cautioned the United States and Israel against any miscalculation, warning of what he described as a harsh military response to further aggression.

“We warn the enemies of Iran to avoid any miscalculation and think about the consequences of any aggression,” Mr Abdollahi said.

Funeral processions for Mr Khamenei are scheduled to begin on July 4 in Tehran and conclude with his burial on July 9 in Mashhad.

Additional mourning ceremonies will also be held in Qom and Iraq during the funeral period.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi had earlier issued a similar warning following remarks by Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz.

Iranian authorities said temporary airspace restrictions would be imposed over Tehran, Mashhad and other cities during the funeral activities.

The government has also heightened security nationwide ahead of the ceremonies.

State authorities are mobilising transport, accommodation and logistics to facilitate public participation in the mourning events.

Officials described the funeral as a demonstration of national unity and support for the Islamic Republic.

Foreign dignitaries, including representatives from Russia and China, are expected to attend condolence events in Tehran.

Security agencies said they would remain on high alert throughout the funeral period to prevent any security breach. 

(Reuters/NAN)

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