Iran’s Supreme Leader Makes First Public Appearance Since Iran-Israel War Began
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appeared in public on Saturday for the first time since the 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel erupted. He attended a religious mourning ceremony marking the eve of Ashoura, one of the most significant observances in Shiite Islam.
His absence during the conflict had fueled speculation that Khamenei had gone into hiding—possibly sheltering in a bunker. Iranian state media made no mention of this, but on Saturday, state television broadcast footage of the 86-year-old leader waving to a crowd that rose in unison as he entered a mosque located near his residence and office in Tehran.
Khamenei did not issue any public remarks during the ceremony. High-ranking Iranian officials, including the speaker of parliament, were in attendance. As is customary with such events, the gathering was held under tight security.
U.S. Involvement and Khamenei’s Response
The United States escalated its involvement in the conflict by targeting three nuclear sites in Iran, prompting a sharp response from Washington and Tehran alike. Former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a series of warnings on social media, claiming that while the U.S. was aware of Khamenei’s whereabouts, there were no immediate plans to target him—adding, “at least for now.”
On June 26, shortly after a ceasefire took effect, Khamenei released a prerecorded video—the first time he had spoken publicly in days. In the message, he declared that Iran had delivered a “slap to America’s face” by striking a U.S. air base in Qatar and warned that further attacks from the U.S. or Israel would provoke serious consequences.
Trump responded both online and in press comments, saying, “Look, you’re a man of great faith. A man who’s highly respected in his country. You have to tell the truth. You got beat to hell.”
Heavy Toll and Nuclear Fallout
Iran has confirmed over 900 deaths and thousands of injuries as a result of the conflict. The government also acknowledged major damage to several nuclear facilities, though it has denied access to United Nations nuclear inspectors.
On Wednesday, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi ordered the suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), further hampering global oversight of Iran’s nuclear program. With uranium enrichment nearing weapons-grade levels, it remains unclear how badly the facilities were damaged, whether enriched materials were moved prior to the attacks, or if Iran remains open to resuming nuclear negotiations with the U.S.
Israel launched the offensive citing concerns that Iran was advancing toward nuclear weapon capability. In addition to striking nuclear sites, Israel reportedly targeted Iranian defense infrastructure, senior military personnel, and nuclear scientists. Iran retaliated by launching over 550 ballistic missiles toward Israel—most of which were intercepted. The attacks killed 28 people and caused widespread damage.
Ceremony Marking Ashoura
Saturday’s ceremony, which Khamenei attended, honored the martyrdom of Hussein, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. Hussein’s death in the 7th century Battle of Karbala is a defining moment for Shiite Muslims, symbolizing resistance against oppression.
In Iran, which is majority Shiite, mourners dressed in black and gathered under red flags symbolizing Hussein’s blood. Traditional Ashoura rituals were observed, including chest-beating, self-flagellation, and processions. Due to intense heat, some participants sprayed water over mourners to keep them cool.
Internet Disruption Adds to Tensions
Late Saturday, NetBlocks, an organization that monitors global internet access, reported a significant internet outage in Iran. The disruption was consistent with widespread user complaints across the country. The blackout occurred just weeks after Iran imposed telecommunications restrictions during the war. NetBlocks later confirmed that connectivity had been restored after about two hours.
