Iranian Media Calls for 'Blood Revenge' Amid Funeral of Former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei as Trump Threatens Iran

Following the funeral ceremonies for former Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Iranian state-affiliated media and public demonstrations have intensified calls for "blood revenge" against those deemed responsible for his death. The funeral events, which began over the weekend and continued into Monday, have been used by Tehran as a show of strength and unity, emphasizing that Khamenei's death marks the start of a new phase in their struggle rather than an end.

Iranian newspapers aligned with the regime, such as Kayhan, Vatan-e Emrooz, and Asr-e Iranian, prominently featured headlines demanding harsh retaliation. Kayhan declared "This flag will not fall," promising severe revenge for the "great crimes" committed. Vatan-e Emrooz described the mass prayers as a "red prayer," symbolizing martyrdom and renewed commitment to Khamenei's path. Asr-e Iranian echoed the call for "blood revenge," quoting Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi who warned that perpetrators will not escape just punishment and cautioned against any retreat from the enemy.

During the funeral, a symbolic ritual known as "stoning the devil" was adapted to target U.S. President Donald Trump, with mourners throwing stones at his image. Chants of "Death to America and Israel" and threats against Trump were also reported. This ritual, inspired by the Islamic pilgrimage tradition, was repurposed to express hostility toward the U.S. amid heightened tensions.

Meanwhile, President Trump reiterated his threats against Iran, stating he prefers a deal but warned he could dismantle Iran's infrastructure "in one afternoon" if necessary. The Iranian regime's use of the term "blood revenge" (Khonkhahi) draws on Shia tradition linked to Imam Hussein's martyrdom, framing retaliation as a religious and national duty. The widespread display of red flags during the funeral symbolizes unavenged blood and the continuation of resistance.

These developments underscore Tehran's intent to project resilience and determination in the face of external threats, signaling that the regime views Khamenei's death as a catalyst for intensified confrontation rather than weakening.