Trump Surprised by Massive Turnout at Khamenei's Funeral

Former President Donald Trump was taken aback by the massive turnout at the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, contrary to his expectations of the late leader's unpopularity. In an interview, he discussed Iran's eagerness to negotiate and the temporary pause in talks due to the funeral. Meanwhile, the ceremonies drew millions, with mourners expressing strong sentiments against the US and Israel. Notably absent was Mojtaba Khamenei, the new supreme leader, who has remained out of public view since the war began. This article delves into the implications of these events on Iran's political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 5, 2026, 04:08 IST

Trump's Reaction to Khamenei's Funeral Attendance

Former President Donald Trump expressed his astonishment at the overwhelming attendance at the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the former Supreme Leader of Iran. He had anticipated that Khamenei would not be well-regarded, but the turnout contradicted his expectations. In an interview with Axios, Trump remarked, "I was shocked. I thought people hated him," and later speculated, "Maybe it's fake tears," upon witnessing the emotional responses of mourners during the ceremonies.

Trump also mentioned that Iran is keen to resume negotiations, stating, "They are begging to make a deal," and noted that discussions were paused until after the funeral. He indicated that both parties agreed to refrain from military actions during this period, saying, "They are all there. One shot [and we can take them all out], but we are not going to do that because then we would have nobody to negotiate with."

Meanwhile, the funeral ceremonies attracted enormous crowds throughout Tehran. The Iranian Health Ministry, as reported by the semi-official Tasnim News Agency, estimated that approximately 15 million people might participate in the farewell events over the next few days. Temporary medical facilities were set up near the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, where Khamenei's coffin and those of several family members were displayed publicly.

Large groups of mourners, dressed in black, chanted slogans such as "Death to America" and "Death to Israel," while some held placards calling for Trump's assassination. Others shouted, "Our word is one. Revenge! Revenge!" as Iranian officials pledged to "seek justice" for the US-Israeli airstrike that resulted in Khamenei's death.

Where Is Mojtaba Khamenei?

Despite the significant public turnout, Mojtaba Khamenei, the newly appointed supreme leader and son of Ali Khamenei, was notably absent from the ceremonies. Reports suggest that Mojtaba has been out of the public eye since the onset of the war in late February. It is believed he sustained injuries in the attack that claimed the lives of his father, mother, and wife, and he has only communicated through written statements disseminated by Iranian media.

Although Iranian authorities have organized multiple funeral events in Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad, there has been no announcement regarding a public appearance by Mojtaba. Security officials have reportedly dismissed the idea of him attending the funeral due to fears he could be targeted in another Israeli strike.