Monday’s large-scale gatherings occurred in extreme heat, and the government used water cannons to cool off attendants. Mourners in black gathered closely around a trailer with Khamenei’s casket, which was draped with the flag of Iran, as it slowly made its way through the streets.
While the carefully orchestrated ceremony is meant to showcase the strength of the Islamic Republic, the ongoing war shifted the tone of the proceedings. Many attendees sang “death to America” while waving red flags to symbolize revenge, while others held anti-U.S. and anti-Israel signs, including those with the words “Kill Trump.”
Anti-American sentiment has swelled even as the U.S. and Iran continue peace talks, after signing a memorandum of understanding last month. Negotiations are considered fragile as airstrikes continue throughout the region, including actions in the Strait of Hormuz and exchanges between Israel and Lebanon.
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