Iran's Succession Crisis Deepens as Khamenei's Heir Skips Funeral

Ayatollah Khamenei's designated successor was notably absent from his state funeral on July 6, 2026, complicating Iran's leadership transition during active conflict. Three of Khamenei's sons attended. The Assembly of Experts—the clerical body that selects Iran's Supreme Leader—now faces unprecedented pressure to choose a replacement without clear precedent since Ayatollah Khomeini's succession in 1989.