Iran's Khamenei Makes First Public Appearance Since Israel Air War

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei made his first public appearance since the onset of a 12-day air war with Israel that began on June 13, which resulted in the deaths of top Iranian commanders and nuclear scientists. He attended a religious ceremony marking Ashura, the holiest day in the Shiite Muslim calendar, at a venue in Tehran where many government functions are held, as shown in footage released by Iranian state media. Prior to this event, Khamenei had avoided public appearances and communicated via pre-recorded messages for security reasons amid the escalating conflict, which included Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and retaliatory Iranian missile attacks. Khamenei has also appointed replacements for military command and clerical leadership in case of fatalities, while President Donald Trump has issued threats against Iran following Khamenei's statements. The public appearance is seen as a demonstration of resilience by Iran's leadership amid regional tensions and international pressure, including U.S. military involvement that began with strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. This event underscores the ongoing volatility in the Middle East and the high stakes involved in the confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States.