Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the start of the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran by attending a mourning ceremony on the eve of Ashoura. Khamenei’s presence at the ceremony, held at a mosque near his office and residence in Tehran, marked his return after being in a secure bunker during the hostilities. Despite no immediate public statement, the event was attended by Iranian officials under heavy security measures. During the conflict, the U.S. involvement escalated tensions, with President Donald Trump issuing warnings to Khamenei via social media. Following a ceasefire, Khamenei declared that Iran had delivered a strong message to the U.S. with its actions during the war. The conflict resulted in significant casualties and damage to Iran’s nuclear facilities, prompting the country to suspend cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. The ceremony hosted by Khamenei commemorated the martyrdom of Hussein, a key figure in Shiite Islam’s history.
