On Saturday night, Khamenei attended an annual Shiite religious ceremony for Ashura at his compound, marking his first event since the war began. His absence from public engagements over the past weeks had raised serious questions regarding his wellbeing and potential threats to his life.

Khamenei had previously issued a video message last week in response to U.S. airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities but had largely remained out of the spotlight—an unprecedented move in his lengthy leadership. In his surprise appearance, Khamenei greeted the audience, which included prominent government figures, as they chanted a traditional Shiite battle cry.

While the moment was significant, the Iranian leader appeared frail and struggled through his recent video messages, signifying the strain of recent military confrontations. Despite concerns about his health, his public return is intended to reinforce his authority during this tumultuous period in Iranian-Israeli relations.