Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Reappears After Bunker Claims

Rising regional tensions and persistent claims of an imminent military confrontation have placed Iran’s leadership under intense scrutiny, as officials seek to project stability and readiness.

Public Appearance in Tehran

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei appeared publicly at the mausoleum of Imam Khomeini in Tehran, marking his first high-profile appearance after weeks of absence from public view.

A statement published on Khamenei’s official website and social media accounts said the visit took place as part of Deh-e Fajr celebrations, commemorating the 47th anniversary of the victory of the Islamic Revolution.

According to the statement, Khamenei visited the mausoleum as he does annually, reaffirming his commitment to the ideals of the Islamic Republic’s founder. He performed prayers at the site and offered supplications “to honor the elevated status of the great and militant Imam and the martyrs of the revolution.”

Response To Bunker Claims

Khamenei’s appearance came amid widespread claims that he had been sheltering in an underground bunker following increased U.S. military pressure and reports of potential strikes against Iran. Iranian officials had not previously commented on those allegations, making the visit particularly notable.

Military Warnings To U.S. And Israel

Meanwhile, Iran’s Chief of Staff Major General Amir Hatami issued a strong warning to the United States and Israel, stressing that Iran’s armed forces are operating under high alert and full military readiness.

“If the enemy makes a mistake, it will undoubtedly endanger not only its own security, but also the security of the region and the security of the Zionist regime,” Hatami said. He emphasized that Iran’s military remains fully prepared to respond to any threat.

Billboards Deliver Message in Tehran

In a further display of defiance, Iranian authorities placed billboards across central Tehran bearing images of coffins draped in U.S. and Israeli flags. The accompanying message read: “Watch over your soldiers.”

The visual campaign underscored Tehran’s warning that any military confrontation would carry severe consequences for Iran’s adversaries.