Iran has released a fresh image of Mojtaba Khamenei in what many observers see as an attempt to counter growing speculation surrounding his prolonged absence from public view following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The development comes as Iran prepares to hold a memorial ceremony for the late Supreme Leader, an event expected to draw senior officials, military commanders and religious figures from across the country. The announcement has once again placed the spotlight on whether Mojtaba will make a public appearance after remaining largely out of view during key state events. Now, Iranian authorities have released a new photograph of Mojtaba, widely interpreted as an effort to put rumours about his whereabouts and well-being to rest. However, the image has done little to completely silence questions, with many continuing to watch for his first major public appearance at the upcoming memorial ceremony. WATCH

Iran has bid a final farewell to former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as thousands gathered in the holy city of Mashhad for the final stage of an elaborate state funeral held amid heightened regional tensions. The flag-draped coffin of Khamenei was carried into the revered Imam Reza Shrine, where senior Iranian officials, religious leaders and mourners paid their last respects. The funeral marked the conclusion of six days of ceremonies that stretched across Iran and Iraq, including commemorations in Najaf and Karbala before the final burial in Mashhad. One of the most striking moments of the ceremony saw fighter jets escort the aircraft carrying Khamenei's coffin as it made its final journey to Mashhad, underscoring the significance of the state funeral. Coffins of family members reportedly killed during recent hostilities also accompanied the procession. WATCH