On the evening of July 5, 2025, Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stepped into the public eye for the first time since the outbreak of the 12-day war with Israel in June 2025. His appearance at the annual Ashura ceremony, a cornerstone of Shiite religious observance, was a carefully orchestrated moment that resonated deeply with supporters and carried significant political weight. Held at his compound in Tehran, the event marked a pivotal moment for a nation grappling with the aftermath of conflict, economic strain, and international scrutiny.
