Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the 12-day Israel-Iran war, attending a ceremony.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei emerged from hiding Saturday to attend a religious ceremony, marking his first public appearance since the 12-day war between Israel and Iran began.Why It Matters
Khamenei’s public reappearance signals a potential shift in Iran’s posture following a devastating conflict that saw U.S. forces bomb three key nuclear sites and resulted in over 900 Iranian deaths.
His decision to emerge from what sources describe as « bunker hiding » demonstrates either increased confidence in his security or the political necessity of showing strength to his people during a significant religious observance.
The timing coincides with Iran’s controversial suspension of cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and reports of major internet disruptions across the country, suggesting ongoing tensions and potential preparations for future diplomatic or military developments.What To Know
The 86-year-old leader appeared at a mourning ceremony on the eve of Ashoura at a mosque next to his office and residence in Tehran, where state television showed him waving and nodding to a chanting crowd that rose to its feet upon his entrance.
