Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has reappeared in public for the first time since the commencement of a significant conflict between Iran and Israel. The leader’s public engagement was broadcast by state media on Saturday, marking a notable moment following a period of intense hostilities.
Ayatollah Khamenei was seen at a mosque engaging with worshippers during a ceremony held the day before the significant Shia observance of Ashura. This appearance follows his last public address, delivered via a recorded message during the recent 12-day conflict with Israel. This period of conflict saw the elimination of prominent Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists.
The conflict itself was initiated by a surprise aerial assault by Israel on Iranian nuclear and military installations. Iran subsequently retaliated with its own aerial attacks targeting Israel, escalating regional tensions.
During the intense 12-day war, Ayatollah Khamenei made three video appearances on television, leading to widespread speculation about his whereabouts and whether he was taking shelter in a bunker. His reappearance on Saturday was extensively covered by Iranian media, with footage showing supporters expressing their relief and joy at seeing him on television.
In the broadcast footage, Khamenei is seen interacting with senior cleric Mahmoud Karimi, encouraging him to lead the singing of “O Iran,” a patriotic anthem that gained considerable popularity during the recent hostilities. The event was reportedly filmed at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Mosque, a site named after the founder of the Islamic Republic.
Iranian television has actively encouraged public participation by inviting viewers to submit videos sharing their reactions to the Supreme Leader’s return to public view. This engagement highlights the significant national attention surrounding his public activities.
The Supreme Leader’s appearance coincides with the ongoing period of mourning in Iran for the month of Muharram, a time traditionally marked by the Supreme Leader’s participation in ceremonies. Ashura, a key day within Muharram falling on July 6th this year, commemorates the martyrdom of Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, a deeply significant event for Shia Muslims.
Previously, on June 26th, Ayatollah Khamenei stated in pre-recorded remarks that Iran would not yield to Israel, despite appeals from US President Donald Trump. These remarks underscored Iran’s defiant stance amidst the escalating international pressures.
The United States entered the conflict on June 22nd, launching strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities. This operation involved a substantial deployment of 125 US military aircraft and targeted key nuclear sites, including Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan. According to Iran’s judiciary, the conflict resulted in over 900 fatalities.
The CIA director has indicated that Iran’s nuclear sites sustained severe damage as a result of these operations, further complicating the geopolitical landscape.