• Iran prepares for the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei amid a fragile ceasefire with the US.
• The funeral is expected to attract 15 to 20 million mourners, potentially marking the largest state funeral in Iran's history.
• Preparations include heavy police presence and public safety measures due to anticipated high temperatures.
• Foreign dignitaries from around 30 countries are expected to attend, with no invitations extended to Europe.
• The ceremony follows significant unrest in Iran over economic issues and will involve multiple stages across holy cities.

Iran is making extensive preparations for the grand funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the late supreme leader killed in US-Israeli airstrikes, amidst ongoing tensions in the region. His funeral ceremony, initially delayed due to the outbreak of war in the Middle East, will occur as Iran and the United States are observing a fragile ceasefire after signing a preliminary agreement to halt hostilities, according to Le Monde, Channel News Asia, and South China Morning Post.

The public funeral is expected to begin on Saturday, featuring Khamenei's body lying in state at the Grand Mosalla in central Tehran, where major gatherings are traditionally held. With an estimated 15 to 20 million mourners anticipated, officials state this could become the largest state funeral in Iran's history. Workers have been busy painting and preparing the venue, while a noticeable police presence has been established to ensure safety during the events, according to Le Monde and Channel News Asia.

In light of the expected large crowds, Iranian state television has urged attendees to utilize public transport to avoid congestion and has issued warnings about staying hydrated due to rising temperatures. Traffic restrictions are already evident, with major roads closed across Tehran, further complicating city movement. Coverage by state media has included numerous documentaries reflecting on Khamenei's life, according to South China Morning Post.

A separate event for foreign dignitaries is scheduled for Friday, with approximately 30 countries expected to send representatives. Notably, Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson declined to invite European nations, criticizing their position on the US-Israeli conflict as "truly disgraceful." Support for Russia has remained strong throughout the war, indicating the complexities of international relations surrounding this event. The funeral also coincides with a period of public holidays and significant traffic limitations in Tehran, as reported by Channel News Asia and South China Morning Post.

As the ceremonies are set to unfold, sentiments of a "bright future" are echoed in funeral posters across Tehran, along with the ceremonial motto, "We Must Rise." Following the main events, Khamenei's body is slated for transfer to holy sites in Iraq before being interred on July 9 at the shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad, his birthplace. However, the attendance of Khamenei’s son and designated successor, Mojtaba, remains uncertain, with officials indicating that any details will be communicated via the Office of the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, according to Le Monde, Channel News Asia, and South China Morning Post.