Mom arrived in USA on green card in late 2024 and dad passed away in early 2024 while in India, do I need to get an ITIN for my dad to file my mom's tax return?

My mom arrived in USA on a green card in late 2024 after my dad (status: Indian citizen) passed away in early 2024 (while in India). I am trying to help file my mom's tax return for 2024, Turbo Tax is asking me to apply for an ITIN for my late dad (even if I select the option of Married Filing Separately). Is this the only way that my mom can file her tax returns? My dad never had a green card, do we really need to apply for an ITIN for him? Thanks!