‘We are Iran’s true missiles’: millions gather in Tehran for day four of Ali Khamenei’s funeral

What Happened

Millions gathered in central Tehran for the fourth day of mourning for assassinated former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, according to on-the-ground reporting. The procession along Azadi Street toward Revolution Square blended public grief with displays of defiance, including chants calling for revenge against U.S. President Donald Trump. Placards read 'We the people are Iran's true missiles,' and some attendees urged Iran to accelerate its nuclear weapons program. Witnesses described a cross-section of society—families, clerics, professionals—claiming the turnout demonstrated national unity and resilience after months of war. One attendee, Maryam Ghiyasi, a doctor, said, 'We are ashamed because we did not do enough when he was alive.' Reza Aziz questioned whether Hiroshima would have been bombed if Japan had nuclear weapons, while gymnastic coach Mohammad Mousabvi, 50, called for 'decimating Israel and America.' The crowd was lightly policed, and the atmosphere mixed solemnity with political fervor.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The massive turnout signals domestic backing for the Islamic Republic's defiance posture amid a leadership vacuum and could harden Iran's stance against the U.S. and Israel. The public calls for a nuclear breakout, if echoed by the state, may accelerate a weapons program and provoke sharper international sanctions or military responses. The funeral also serves as a legitimacy test for the regime, showcasing its ability to mobilize across societal divides just as it faces internal and external pressures.

Watch For

Monitor the remaining two days of the six-day funeral for official statements from Supreme Leader successor Masoud Pezeshkian or IRGC commanders; any announcement of retaliatory strikes or nuclear policy changes; U.S. and Israeli military posturing or diplomatic reactions; and IAEA reports on Iran's enrichment activity, especially if the nuclear rhetoric translates into accelerated centrifuge installation.