The United States reportedly waged a diplomatic campaign to dissuade nations from attending the funeral of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian media claims at least 13 countries either withdrew or reduced their delegations following US pressure, with warnings about potential cuts to development aid and implications for bilateral ties. The funeral ceremonies are ongoing, with Khamenei’s burial scheduled for July 9. The United States reportedly waged a diplomatic campaign to dissuade nations from attending the funeral of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian media claims at least 13 countries either withdrew or reduced their delegations following US pressure, with warnings about potential cuts to development aid and implications for bilateral ties. The funeral ceremonies are ongoing, with Khamenei’s burial scheduled for July 9.
