Khamenei funeral: Millions mourn, but new leader's absence fuels insecurity

Funeral Procession and International Attendance

Tehran and other Iranian cities have witnessed the funeral ceremonies of former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, attended by millions of mourners and dozens of foreign delegations, including presidents, prime ministers, and ministers. The procession will also proceed to Iraq.

However, one person whose absence has drawn particular attention is the current Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. He has not been seen in public since the Israeli airstrike on February 28, which wounded him and killed his father Ali Khamenei, his wife Zahra Haddad-Adel, and other family members.

Public Reactions

Many Iranians expressed concern over the leader's absence. Masoumeh, 26, from Tehran, noted that Khamenei's presence symbolizes national security, and now he feels the former security no longer prevails. Meanwhile, Faezeh, 35, believes the leader should remain hidden for safety reasons and that his absence does not affect governance, but people deserve the truth.

"It is like believing in something unseen," she said, comparing the situation to mystical faith.

Israeli Threats and Health Rumors

On Monday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Khamenei was assassinated by Israel because he set in motion plans to destroy Israel. Katz warned that any Iranian leader attempting to repeat this plan would also be thwarted.

Rumors about Mojtaba Khamenei's health have circulated since the attack. Sources close to his inner circle reported serious injuries, including facial damage and significant harm to one or both legs. Combined with his absence from his wife's and father's funerals, this has raised questions about the state of Iranian power.

Somayeh, 47, expressed dissatisfaction: "It seems the government is not honest with the people." She suggested that some officials might be exploiting the situation for their own goals.

Analysts' Assessment

Iranian-American political analyst Negar Mortazavi noted that the leader's absence is unusual, as past supreme leaders were visible and unifying. However, she added that this situation is imposed, not by design, and cannot continue indefinitely. "They can't hide him forever," she said.