PM Sharif, CDF Munir attend Iran's late supreme leader’s funeral ceremony

This live blog follows the latest developments across the Middle East crisis, including regional diplomacy, maritime security, ceasefire negotiations, and economic fallout.

Catch up: Yesterday’s top developments

• France, UK ready to deploy militaries to support transit in Strait of Hormuz
• Netanyahu, Trump agree to meet in US 'soon': Israel PM's office
• Over 600,000 displaced Lebanese return home amid ceasefire: IOM
• PM Sharif, CDF Munir attend Iran's late supreme leader’s funeral ceremony

Crowds enter Khamenei's funeral venue ahead of processions: AFP journalist

Published: July 4, 2026 | 01:59 GMT | by AFP

Thousands of mourners entered Tehran's Grand Mosalla on Saturday for the funeral ceremonies of Iran's late supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, AFP journalists witnessed, ahead of its official start.

The main courtyard of the vast complex was filled with people as authorities imposed extensive traffic restrictions across the capital. Another AFP journalist saw mourners walking several kilometers to reach the venue.

France, UK ready to deploy militaries to support transit in Strait of Hormuz

Published: July 3, 2026 | 23:00 GMT | by Web Desk

France and the United Kingdom are ready to deploy a multinational military mission to support the freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Starmer said in a joint statement on Friday.

“The Strait of Hormuz is a vital artery for the global economy. Restoring safe transit for ships of all nations through the Strait is a matter of global concern,” the statement read.

PM Sharif, CDF Munir attend Iran's late supreme leader’s funeral ceremony 

Published: July 3, 2026 | 12:01 GMT | by Web Desk

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid his respects at the coffin of the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei on Friday. 

He was accompanied by Chief of Defense Forces Asim Munir, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, among other officials.

For earlier developments, read our July 3 live blog here