Millions Mourn Iran Commanders, Scientists Killed in Israeli Strikes

In Tehran, millions of Iranians participated in a massive state funeral procession mourning about 60 senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, and other victims killed in recent Israeli strikes amid escalating conflict. The funeral, marked by patriotic fervor and anti-Israel and anti-American chants, underscored Iran's resolve and unity in the face of perceived aggression, with top officials including President Masoud Pezeshkian and other senior figures attending. Among the deceased were key leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), such as Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri and IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, as well as prominent nuclear scientists linked to Iran’s defense programs. The ceremony, taking place between Tehran’s Revolution and Azadi Squares, was described as a symbol of resistance and a call for justice, with speeches emphasizing the martyrs' sacrifice as a source of national inspiration. The funeral drew notable regional delegations, signaling growing solidarity with Iran against Israel’s actions, and highlighted the ongoing geopolitical instability in the Middle East. Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Ebrahim Raisi condemned the killings as terrorism and vowed retaliation, while public mourning was accompanied by chants of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel."