Iran Holds Massive Funeral for Slain Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei

Tehran witnessed huge crowds on the second day of funeral ceremonies for Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in February during Israeli and US airstrikes that triggered the recent West Asia conflict.

Poet Sparks Controversy at Funeral

During the public mourning at Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, poet Mohammad Rasouli made strong remarks against US President Donald Trump, asking the crowd why “the most [controversial] man in the world is still alive.” His words triggered loud chants of “Death to America!” and “Death to Israel!” from hundreds of thousands of mourners.

Key Developments on Day Two

Prayers were offered over Khamenei’s casket as part of the multi-day funeral events. Sunday was declared a public holiday across Iran. The body is expected to be taken in processions through Tehran on Monday before the final burial scheduled for July 9.

Khamenei’s son and successor, Mojtaba Khamenei, has not appeared publicly since the attack that killed his father. Reports suggest he was also injured in the same strike.

Regional and Global Implications

The funeral comes amid a fragile pause in hostilities between Iran, Israel, and the United States. India is closely monitoring the situation due to its energy security concerns. Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri stated that India is accelerating domestic oil exploration after facing major supply disruptions during the conflict.

Iran has also indicated plans to introduce new fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after the initial 60-day free passage period, while assuring friendly nations of special treatment.

Trump-Netanyahu Dynamics

US President Donald Trump recently commented on his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating that Netanyahu “knows who the boss is.” A possible meeting between the two leaders is expected soon amid ongoing regional tensions.