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Powerful general in Iran seen as Tehran readies for Khamenei's funeral
AP News • • general
Key Points:
- Gen. Ahmad Vahidi, a key figure in Iran's Revolutionary Guard, reappeared publicly for the first time since early February, attending meetings and funeral services for the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- Vahidi is considered influential in shaping Iran's hardline approach to negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict with the United States and is reportedly in close contact with Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, who remains in hiding.
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in an Israeli airstrike at the start of the recent Iran war, with state media showing mourning ceremonies featuring symbolic Shiite imagery and participation from families affected by the conflict.
- Iran has planned a multi-day funeral procession for Khamenei, starting at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, with events expected to disrupt daily life as the nation commemorates the long-time leader known for his strict governance and opposition to the West.
