US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States dealt a severe blow to Iran during the recent conflict, making the remarks as Iran began a six-day state funeral for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Speaking during an address near Mount Rushmore, Trump said Washington had deliberately delayed further action to allow Iran time to conduct funeral ceremonies. He asserted that Tehran was now eager to reach a settlement, while describing the US military campaign as highly successful.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who led Iran for 36 years, was killed on February 28 after US and Israeli strikes at the outset of the conflict between Iran and the two allies. The war disrupted plans for an immediate burial, with authorities postponing the funeral because of the ongoing hostilities, despite Islamic traditions generally favouring burial within a day of death.

Although a peace agreement was signed between Iran and the United States last month, sporadic exchanges of fire have continued, leaving the ceasefire under strain. However, tensions have shown signs of easing in recent days.

Iran has scheduled the funeral ceremonies from July 4 to July 9. The observances include religious events in the holy city of Qom before concluding with Khamenei's burial in Mashhad, his hometown in northeastern Iran. Officials expect millions of mourners to participate throughout the ceremonies.

Across the country, streets have been decorated with banners, posters and large billboards paying tribute to the late leader. During a gathering at Tehran's Grand Mosalla, some mourners were also seen carrying banners expressing hostility towards Trump.

Meanwhile, reports citing Ayatollah Hakim Elahi, described as Mojtaba Khamenei's representative in India, said Iran's current Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is expected to stay away from the public funeral events due to security concerns. According to the reports, fears of possible Israeli threats and surveillance influenced the decision.

Another emotional aspect of the funeral has drawn public attention. Alongside Khamenei's coffin, a small coffin carrying the body of his 14-month-old granddaughter, who was reportedly killed during the US-Israeli strikes, has also been placed. The remains of several other family members who died in the conflict are also part of the funeral procession.