People's Democratic Party president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has travelled to Tehran to attend the funeral ceremonies of Iran's former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The visit comes after she received an official invitation from Iranian authorities to participate in the state funeral being held in the Iranian capital.
According to party representatives, Mehbooba Mufti departed from New Delhi on Thursday evening. The People's Democratic Party stated that the Iranian government arranged a special aircraft for invited foreign guests because commercial flights to Iran remain suspended amid the prevailing regional situation.
The funeral ceremonies are scheduled to begin on July 4 and continue over several days before the final burial in Mashhad. Iranian authorities have announced extensive arrangements for the state funeral, with delegations from several countries expected to attend the ceremonies.
According to reports, Mehbooba Mufti is the only non-Shia political leader from the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh region to receive an invitation to the ceremony. Other invited participants from the region include political leaders, Members of Parliament, and prominent Shia religious representatives.
The invitation has attracted political attention because it reflects the longstanding cultural and historical ties between India and Iran. In recent days, Mehbooba Mufti had publicly expressed condolences following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and confirmed that she would travel to Tehran after receiving the formal invitation.
India is also sending an official delegation to represent the Government of India at the funeral ceremonies. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the delegation reflects the longstanding civilizational relationship and diplomatic engagement between India and Iran.
Iran has made elaborate security and logistical arrangements for the multi-day funeral. Authorities have announced temporary restrictions, including heightened security measures and changes to transportation services during the ceremonies, which are expected to attract large numbers of mourners and international dignitaries.
Political analysts note that participation in state funerals of foreign leaders is a common diplomatic practice and often reflects existing bilateral relations rather than any change in official foreign policy. Invitations are frequently extended to political leaders, government representatives, and other distinguished guests from different countries.
The funeral ceremonies are expected to conclude after a series of commemorative events in Tehran and other Iranian cities. International delegations and invited guests will participate in the official proceedings organized by the Iranian government.