Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Appears Publicly After 12-Day War With Israel

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance on July 5 at a mourning ceremony for Ashura, marking his return after nearly three weeks of absence during a 12-day war with Israel. His disappearance had raised concerns, with reports indicating he stayed in a secure underground bunker to avoid assassination amid heavy Israeli airstrikes that targeted Iranian nuclear sites and killed top commanders and scientists. Despite the damage to Iran's nuclear facilities and the loss of key personnel, Khamenei claimed Iran had won the conflict, although the reality showed significant losses, including over 900 casualties and halted cooperation with UN nuclear inspectors. The Ashura event was held under heavy security in Tehran and included high-ranking Iranian officials, highlighting the ceremony's religious and political significance amid ongoing tensions. Iran retaliated to Israeli strikes by firing more than 550 ballistic missiles, causing casualties and damage in Israeli cities. The conflict also involved U.S. military operations aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program, further escalating regional instability.