Tehran: An emotional and tense atmosphere was witnessed in the capital Tehran during the funeral of former Supreme Leader of Iran Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. During the funeral procession in the presence of lakhs of people, slogans were raised against America and its President Donald Trump. At many places, the crowd raised slogans like “It is our duty to kill Donald Trump”, due to which the ongoing tension between America and Iran once again came into limelight.
This funeral is taking place at a time when the ceasefire has recently come into force between the two countries and all eyes are on the international level for future talks.
Why did the crowd gather in the last journey?
Thousands of people in black clothes started gathering on the streets of Tehran since morning. People arrived with Khamenei’s photos and Iranian flags in their hands to pay their last respects. Many mourners beat their chests, a traditional ritual of the Shia community. Tight security arrangements were made in the city’s main religious place Grand Mosalla and surrounding areas. Many senior leaders of the country and foreign representatives also participated in the last journey.
Why were sharp slogans raised against Trump?
During the funeral, anti-American slogans were continuously heard in the crowd. Many protesters also waved posters and banners targeting Donald Trump. According to local media, some groups chanted slogans such as “It is our duty to kill Trump”, giving the event a political tone. Anti-American sentiment has long been strong in Iran and has become more acute after the recent military conflict.
Why was the security system so strict?
The security arrangements in Tehran for the funeral were unprecedented. Several major roads were closed, while additional security personnel were deployed in sensitive areas. The administration had also increased surveillance on the airspace. Officials feared that the possibility of any untoward incident cannot be ruled out amid the large crowd and the existing regional tension.
Why does tension persist even after the ceasefire?
Although a ceasefire has recently come into effect between America and Iran, relations between the two countries remain tense. The slogans raised during the funeral are being considered an indication that deep dissatisfaction with America still exists within Iran. Political analysts believe that future diplomatic talks may also be affected by such incidents.
Where are the world’s eyes set now?
Experts say that Iran’s next political and strategic move after the funeral can affect the situation in the entire West Asia. On the one hand, the international community is trying to maintain stability in the region, while on the other hand, the strong public sentiments emerging within Iran can play an important role in determining the direction of US-Iran relations in the coming days.
At present, the eyes of the whole world are on whether both countries move towards reducing tension or the phase of conflict intensifies again.
