Former US President Donald Trump sparked controversy during a July 4 address at Mount Rushmore, taking aim at Iran amidst the country's week-long mourning for its former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump claimed the United States had given Iran 'a week off' for the funeral, drawing cheers and laughter from the audience.
Addressing a large crowd, Trump defended his administration's military actions against Iran, stating, "We knocked the hell out of Iran. They're dying to settle. They want to settle so badly. We gave them a week off for a funeral because we're nice." These comments were made as Iran commenced emotional farewell ceremonies for Khamenei, who reportedly died on February 28 at the age of 86, at the start of a broader Middle East conflict.
Iran Mourns Slain Leader
In Tehran, thousands of mourners gathered at the Grand Mosalla religious complex. Khamenei's coffin, draped in the Iranian national flag, was carried during a solemn ceremony honoring the leader who had ruled the Islamic Republic for over three decades. Iranian authorities anticipate millions will participate in public mourning and large funeral processions throughout the week.
International Tributes and Attendance
Senior foreign officials arrived in Tehran to pay their respects to the slain Supreme Leader. Delegations from key allies, including the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Lebanon's Hezbollah, were among those offering tributes. Representatives from approximately 30 countries, including China and several neighboring nations in the Caucasus region, are expected to attend the public funeral ceremony scheduled to begin on Saturday.