Montazeri

Grand Ayatollah Hussein Ali Montazeri has died:

"Crowds of mourners are gathering in the Iranian city of Qom following the death of leading reformist cleric Grand Ayatollah Hoseyn Ali Montazeri at 87.

"Some pro-reform websites say thousands of people are travelling to the city ahead of Monday's funeral.

"Other unverified reports say opposition supporters are also gathering in some squares in Tehran, fuelling government concern of increased political tension...

"The BBC's Jon Leyne says his death comes at a crucial time in a standoff between the government and opposition, and the leaders will fear a big turnout for Monday's funeral."

(Crossposted to American Footprints)