Morning update
Iran has begun preparations for the funeral of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei after his body arrived at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla mosque ahead of ceremonies expected to draw millions of mourners.
At the same time, Washington and Tehran continue to exchange messages over the implementation of their memorandum of understanding, while tensions persist in Lebanon and the Strait of Hormuz.
Ali Khamenei’s body arrived at Tehran’s Grand Mosalla mosque, where mourners have begun gathering ahead of Saturday’s funeral.
Iranian authorities expect more than 20 million people to participate in funeral ceremonies, which will conclude with Khamenei’s burial in Mashhad on July 9.
A red flag from the Imam Reza Shrine in Mashhad was placed over Khamenei’s coffin during ceremonies in Tehran.
Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi, the new commander of the IRGC, made a rare public appearance during a memorial event in the Iranian capital.
Pakistan’s interior minister arrived in Iran ahead of the funeral as foreign delegations continue to gather for the ceremonies.
President Donald Trump said Iran has “almost agreed” to US demands and confirmed negotiations with Tehran will continue.
Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said lasting peace in the region must be comprehensive and free from external interference.
Iran’s UN representative warned that any US violation of the memorandum of understanding would trigger an Iranian response.
Iran’s military command instructed vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz to follow designated routes or face a “forceful response”.
In Lebanon, President Joseph Aoun called for international pressure on Israel to implement the framework agreement, while Israel announced the Givati Brigade had completed its mission in southern Lebanon.
Red and black pennants hang above a street in Tehran during preparations for the farewell ceremony of Iran’s late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, 2 July 2026. (Mohammed Salem/Reuters)
