Tensions Soar as Mourners Demand Revenge on Trump at Khamenei Funeral

Hundreds of thousands of mourners filled the streets of Tehran on Monday as Iran held the main funeral procession for its late Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with crowds chanting slogans calling for revenge against U.S. President Donald Trump and denouncing the United States and Israel. The ceremony became both a national mourning event and a powerful political demonstration amid heightened regional tensions.

Dressed predominantly in black, mourners accompanied Khamenei’s coffin through central Tehran, waving Iranian flags, red banners symbolizing martyrdom and vengeance, and portraits of the late leader. Chants including “Death to America,” “Death to Israel,” and calls for retaliation against Trump echoed throughout the procession, reflecting public anger over Khamenei’s death earlier this year in a U.S.-Israeli airstrike, according to Iranian authorities.

Senior Iranian political, military and religious leaders attended the state funeral, describing the massive turnout as a demonstration of national unity and resilience. The procession forms part of several days of official mourning, with additional ceremonies scheduled before Khamenei’s burial in his hometown of Mashhad.

Despite the appearance of many senior officials, Iran’s new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, did not appear publicly during the procession. Iranian officials have cited security concerns and injuries reportedly sustained during the conflict as reasons for his absence, although his nonappearance has drawn widespread international attention.

The funeral comes at a time of intense diplomatic and military tension. While Iran continues discussions with international partners over regional security and maritime issues, officials have repeatedly vowed that those responsible for Khamenei’s death will face consequences. The United States has not publicly responded to the chants made during the funeral procession.

Analysts say the enormous turnout highlights the emotional and political significance of Khamenei’s death within Iran, while also underscoring the continuing hostility between Tehran, Washington and Israel. The funeral is expected to remain a focal point of both domestic politics and international diplomacy in the days ahead.