Iran’s clerics are preparing days of mass funeral rites for Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Iran’s former supreme leader was killed by United States (US) and Israeli strikes on February 28.

Several members of his family were also killed in the attack. The funeral events will begin over the weekend in Tehran.

Mass processions are planned next week in Qom and Mashhad and ceremonies in Iraq.

Millions of mourners are expected to attend, including international delegates.

During his recent visit to South Africa, Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Doctor Saeed Khatibzadeh, said despite the heavy losses suffered during the war, Iran would continue to defend itself.

–SABC–