A Nation in Mourning
On June 28, 2025, Iran held a solemn state funeral in Tehran for approximately 60 victims of this month’s conflict with Israel. The ceremony paid tribute to 10 senior military commanders, 16 nuclear scientists, several civilians—including women and children—and their family members.
High‑Profile Figures Laid to Rest
Among the fallen were top military leaders:
- Major General Mohammad Bagheri, Chief of the General Staff.
- General Hossein Salami, commander‑in‑chief of the IRGC.
- General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, head of the IRGC Aerospace Force.
Also honored were nuclear scientists like Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi, killed during “Operation Rising Lion”.
A Ceremony of Solidarity
Starting at 8 a.m. local time (04:30 GMT), the funeral began near Enqelab Square. Thousands—possibly over a million according to state media—dressed in black, carried roses, Iranian flags, and photos of the deceased, chanting anti‑American and anti‑Israeli slogans as the procession moved towards Azadi Square, some 11 km away.
Political Display and Religious Undertones
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, supreme leader’s adviser Ali Shamkhani, and IRGC’s Esmail Qaani attended the funeral. Government offices and businesses were closed to allow participation by public servants. The ceremony featured patriotic hymns and was televised nationwide.
Remembering the Toll
The 12‑day conflict ended with a ceasefire on June 25. Iran reports 610 fatalities and over 4,700 injured, including 13 children and 49 women. Independent counts suggest civilian deaths could approach 974. Israeli sources report 28 deaths and over 3,200 injuries on their side.
Strategic Implications
Israeli officials described the campaign as a decisive strike designed to cripple Iran’s military and nuclear leadership, citing advanced long‑range drones, targeted airstrikes, and intelligence operations. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons and cites UN statements confirming “no credible indication” of a weapons program.
The funeral marks Iran’s most visible public show of unity since the ceasefire. It underscores not just the human cost, but the symbolic impact of leadership losses in a high‑stakes regional confrontation.
