Modi Invited to Iran for State Funeral of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei

June 24, 2026

Tehran: Iran has formally invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the state funeral and burial ceremonies of the country’s late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, scheduled to take place between July 5 and July 9, according to diplomatic sources. The invitation has been extended by Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian amid preparations for what is expected to be one of the largest state ceremonies in the country’s recent history.

Sources said the invitation reflects the importance Iran attaches to its relationship with India and comes as Tehran finalises arrangements for a series of events that will be held across multiple cities. The funeral ceremonies are expected to draw millions of mourners, senior Iranian officials, religious leaders and foreign dignitaries from around the world.

Funeral Ceremonies Across Iran

According to Iranian authorities, the funeral programme will begin in Tehran, where Khamenei’s body will lie in state at the Grand Mosalla complex, allowing the public to pay their respects. A major funeral procession is scheduled in the Iranian capital before commemorative events move to other important religious centres.

Ceremonies are also planned in the holy city of Qom, while the final burial will take place in Mashhad, Khamenei’s birthplace and one of the most revered cities in Shia Islam. Iranian officials estimate that several million people could participate in the week-long events.

Diplomatic Significance of Invitation

The invitation to Prime Minister Modi is being viewed as a significant diplomatic gesture at a time when India and Iran continue to maintain strategic engagement on regional and economic issues. While there has been no official word from New Delhi on whether the Prime Minister will attend, diplomatic observers note that India has historically maintained cordial ties with Tehran despite changing geopolitical dynamics.

India had earlier conveyed its condolences following Khamenei’s death. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi and signed the condolence book on behalf of the Government of India, reaffirming New Delhi’s respect for the late leader and its commitment to bilateral relations.

Massive Security Arrangements Planned

Iranian authorities are preparing extensive security and logistical measures for the funeral, given the expected turnout of mourners and international guests. The ceremonies were initially planned earlier in the year but were postponed, with officials later announcing a revised schedule for July.

State media reports indicate that public holidays will be observed during key phases of the funeral programme, while authorities expect large gatherings in Tehran, Qom and Mashhad. The events are likely to be closely watched by the international community due to Khamenei’s long-standing influence on Iran’s domestic and foreign policy.

The final decision on India’s representation at the funeral is expected in the coming days as diplomatic consultations continue