On July 5, 2025, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the Iran-Israel war during an Ashura mourning ceremony in Tehran. The event was held at Imam Khomeini Hosseinieh, adjacent to his residence. This appearance followed a 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel that began on June 13, 2025, and ended with a ceasefire on June 24, 2025.
During the ceremony, Khamenei did not deliver a speech but gestured to religious vocalist Haj Mahmoud Karimi to perform “Ey Iran.” The crowd sang along as Khamenei beat his chest, a traditional Ashura gesture. State media broadcast footage of khamenei public appearance, showing him waving and nodding to worshippers. The event was attended by senior officials, including the parliament speaker, under tight security.
Khamenei’s absence during the conflict raised questions about his health and safety. He reportedly stayed in a secure bunker amid assassination threats from Israeli and U.S. leaders. His communications during the war were limited to pre-recorded messages. Khamenei’s public appearance on Ashura was seen as a move to reassure supporters and project stability.
The Iran-Israel war resulted in over 900 Iranian deaths and significant damage to military and nuclear sites. The U.S. and Israel warned against Iran rebuilding its nuclear capabilities. Khamenei’s return to public view also comes amid succession concerns, with reports that he nominated clerics during the war to ensure leadership continuity.
