Iran’s Funeral Show: Khamenei’s Final Power Display

Iran’s funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei were a carefully planned show of strength, according to Ahou Koutchesfahani, an international relations scholar and Iran expert. The regime aimed to send two messages: to its own people, proving its control and ability to mobilize large crowds, and to the world, reinforcing Khamenei’s image as an anti-imperialist leader who stood up to the United States. Through these events, Tehran also sought to strengthen its narrative and rally support beyond its borders.