BBC News Briefing

6 July, 2026

Sofia has shoulder-length light brown hair and brown eyes and wears a green blouse.

Sofia Lotto Persio

Hello. Thousands of people have gathered in Iran's capital for the multi-day funeral of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. France's Marine Le Pen faces a crucial verdict on her political future. And finally, six mysterious balls wash ashore in Australia.

TOP OF THE AGENDA

Red flags at funeral procession symbolise vengeance

A woman wearing a black chador and large sunglasses holds a phone and a photo of Khamenei in her hands. Other mourners holding Khamenei's photos and red and white flags are visible behind her.

Iranian authorities say 12-20 million people are expected to attend the ceremonies across the country. Credit: Reuters

Huge crowds have been making their way through Tehran since the early hours of Monday, with people seen waving flags and holding up pictures of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. His 36-year rule over the country ended on 28 February, when he was killed during the first day of US-Israeli strikes. Funeral events began on Friday and will last for several days, ending with the burial on Thursday. It's an intensely political event, chief international correspondent Lyse Doucet reports from Tehran, with red flags symbolising vengeance colouring the crowds, and posters singling out US President Donald Trump.

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Analysis: Diplomatic correspondent Paul Adams looks at whether Iran's new leaders represent even more "formidable foes" for the US and Israel.

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Watch: Correspondent Lyse Doucet reports on the political messaging beyond the religious symbolism of the funeral.

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Mojtaba Khamenei: The son and successor of Iran's Ayatollah has largely kept a low profile - here's what we know about him.

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Sign up: Follow the action on and off the pitch with our Football Extra newsletter, delivered to your inbox daily during the tournament.

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