Iran's Supreme Leader Makes First Public Appearance Since Israeli Attack

Roula Khalaf, Editor of the FT, selects her favourite stories in this weekly newsletter.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appeared in public for the first time since Israel struck Iran last month, leading to a two-week war and the death of top military figures.

Khamenei, 86, attended a Shia ceremony in Tehran on Saturday, meeting supporters after being absent from public view. His recent absence had raised safety concerns.

During the conflict, Khamenei claimed victory against the US and Israel in a message on June 26, following a ceasefire. He requested a nationalist song to be recited at the ceremony, tapping into patriotic sentiments.

It remains unclear where Khamenei stayed during the past weeks. US President Trump claimed to know his whereabouts and prevented a potential assassination attempt by Israel, drawing criticism from Iranian officials.

For Iranians, Khamenei's public appearance signifies stability after the recent ceasefire. Foreign minister Abbas Araghchi praised the leader's appearance during a summit in Brazil.

Khamenei's absence from traditional religious ceremonies for fallen commanders marked a departure from past practices. The war ended with a ceasefire on June 24, resulting in casualties on both sides.