Iran's Supreme Leader Makes First Public Appearance Since Iran-Israel Conflict Began

Iran's Supreme Leader Makes First Public Appearance Since Iran-Israel Conflict Began

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei attended a mourning ceremony on the eve of Ashoura, marking his first public appearance since the 12-day conflict between Israel and Iran began.

Khamenei had not been seen in public during the conflict. State television in Iran showed him greeting the crowd at a mosque located near his office and residence in Tehran. Iranian officials, including the parliament speaker, were present at the event, which took place under heightened security.

There was no immediate report of any public statement made by Khamenei during the ceremony.

After the United States conducted airstrikes on three nuclear sites in Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump issued statements on social media directed at Khamenei, indicating awareness of his location but stating there were no plans to target him.

On June 26, following the start of a ceasefire, Khamenei released a prerecorded statement in which he said that Tehran had responded to the United States by striking a U.S. air base in Qatar. He also warned against further military actions by the United States or Israel against Iran.

President Trump responded in remarks to reporters and on social media, addressing Khamenei and referencing the outcome of the conflict.

Iran has reported over 900 fatalities and thousands of injuries as a result of the conflict. The country has also confirmed significant damage to its nuclear facilities and has restricted access for inspectors from the United Nations nuclear watchdog.

Iran's president recently ordered the suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency, further limiting inspectors' ability to monitor Iran's nuclear program. Israel initiated the conflict due to concerns about Iran's nuclear activities.

The extent of the damage to Iran's nuclear facilities remains uncertain. It is also unclear whether any nuclear material or equipment was relocated prior to the attacks, or if Iran will continue negotiations with the United States regarding its nuclear program.

Israel targeted defense systems, senior military officials, and atomic scientists during the conflict. In response, Iran launched more than 550 ballistic missiles at Israel. Most of these missiles were intercepted, resulting in 28 fatalities and damage in several areas.

Ceremony Commemorates Historical Event

The ceremony attended by Khamenei commemorated the 7th century death of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson, Hussein. Shiites, who represent over 10% of the global Muslim population, regard Hussein as the rightful successor to the Prophet Muhammad. His death at Karbala is a significant event in Shiite history and identity.

In Iran, the ceremony included red flags symbolizing Hussein's blood and black tents and clothing as signs of mourning. Processions included chest-beating and self-flagellation, and water was sprayed over participants due to high temperatures.

Reports of Internet Disruption

NetBlocks, an internet monitoring organization, reported a significant disruption to internet connectivity in Iran on Saturday. This disruption was consistent with widespread user reports. The incident occurred weeks after authorities previously restricted telecommunications during the conflict. NetBlocks later reported that internet access was restored after approximately two hours.