Performer at Khamenei funeral calls for Trump’s death during Tehran ceremony

Performer at Khamenei funeral calls for Trump’s death during Tehran ceremony

A performer speaking at the funeral ceremony for Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called for the death of U.S. President Donald Trump during a large public gathering in Tehran on Sunday, drawing chants of “Death to America!” and “Death to Israel!” from sections of the crowd.

The remarks were made by Iranian poet Mohammad Rasouli as hundreds of thousands of mourners gathered for the second day of funeral ceremonies honoring Khamenei, who Iranian authorities say was killed in Israeli and U.S. airstrikes earlier this year. During his address, Rasouli referred to Trump using an insulting term and questioned why he was still alive, prompting loud cheers from many attendees.

The funeral ceremonies, held at Tehran’s Imam Khomeini Grand Mosalla, drew large crowds as Iran paid tribute to its longtime leader. Religious officials were scheduled to lead funeral prayers before the casket as part of the state-organized memorial events.

The inflammatory remarks come amid heightened tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel following months of military confrontation and escalating regional instability. Anti-American and anti-Israel slogans have long been a feature of official events in Iran, particularly during state ceremonies and political rallies.

There has been no immediate public response from the White House regarding the comments made during the funeral. U.S. officials have repeatedly condemned rhetoric that encourages or glorifies violence against American leaders.

The funeral marks a significant moment in Iran’s political transition following the death of Khamenei, whose leadership shaped the country’s domestic and foreign policies for decades. Observers say the coming weeks will be closely watched as Iran navigates leadership changes while facing continued international scrutiny, regional security challenges, and strained relations with Western nations.