**Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei Reemerges as Tensions Mount Amid Israel Conflict**

Khamenei's appearance at a mosque in Tehran coincides with the mourning period of Muharram, and is marked by fervent patriotism among supporters, even as the war's toll weighs heavily on the nation.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was seen in public for the first time since the commencement of a conflict with Israel, celebrated in a televised ceremony at Imam Khomeini Mosque in Tehran. This appearance comes just before the Shia festival of Ashura and follows a tense 12-day period of war, during which Iran faced strikes on its nuclear and military sites and retaliation led to aerial attacks on Israel.

During the ceremony, broadcast on state TV, Khamenei greeted worshippers and encouraged the singing of the national anthem "O Iran," a song that garnered popularity during the recent hostilities. His last appearances prior to this public event included three video messages that sparked rumors about his safety, with some sources claiming he was bunkered down during the war.

The conflict escalated following a surprise Israeli attack on Iran on June 13, triggering a series of retaliatory strikes. On June 26, Khamenei had claimed a victory in a video address after the ceasefire was established. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump condemned Khamenei's assertions, claiming significant damage to Iran’s nuclear sites.

With the backdrop of Muharram, a period of mourning for Shia Muslims, Khamenei's reappearance is filled with emotional weight for both him and his constituents. Iranian media captured the joy of his supporters, who were invited to share reactions reflecting the political and emotional climate of the nation, now under deep scrutiny after the war that has reportedly left over 900 people dead, as stated by the Iranian judiciary. As Khamenei takes a visible stance in a transforming political landscape, the implications of his return will undoubtedly be scrutinized in the weeks to come.