US threatens to cut aid to countries attending Khamenei’s funeral

The United States has reportedly threatened to withdraw financial assistance from countries that participate in funeral ceremonies for Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to Iran’s Tasnim news agency. American ambassadors across Africa are said to have issued the warning to their host governments, signalling that Washington will use its aid leverage to discourage international attendance at the high-profile state funeral.

The threat represents a significant diplomatic move by the United States to isolate Iran at a critical moment, as the death of Khamenei — who has led Iran since 1989 — marks a major transition for the country. Khamenei’s passing, announced earlier this year, triggered immediate questions about succession and Iran’s future direction, with the funeral expected to draw leaders and dignitaries from around the world.

The warning to African nations is particularly pointed, as many depend substantially on American aid for development and security programmes. By targeting assistance to these vulnerable economies, the United States is attempting to create diplomatic consequences for any show of respect or solidarity with Iran’s leadership during the mourning period.

The reported threats underscore the broader US strategy of containing Iranian influence on the global stage, particularly across regions where China and Iran have sought to expand their political and economic reach. However, the approach has sparked debate among international relations experts about whether such pressure tactics may backfire, potentially driving some nations closer to Iran or damaging America’s soft power in regions where aid relationships are already strained.

Source: Walla News — Original article in Hebrew.