Internal Iranian Tensions Erupt at Khamenei Funeral Amid US Negotiations and Military Clashes

Hours before Iran attacked tankers in the Strait of Hormuz on the night between Monday and Tuesday, sparking another round of exchanges with the US military, funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in Tehran revealed deep internal regime tensions. Videos obtained by opposition channel Iran International from Monday show large crowds verbally attacking President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, both involved in stalled negotiations with the US. Protesters shouted "Death to the compromisers" at Raisi and "Death to the traitor" at Araghchi as they marched through Tehran.

Reports indicate two main conservative factions within Iran's leadership: pragmatic conservatives supporting the US talks, including Raisi, Araghchi, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and senior Revolutionary Guards generals, versus hardline conservatives opposing the negotiations. Despite criticism from the hardliners, the pragmatic camp appears to have gained the upper hand, advancing a memorandum of understanding with the US aimed at ending the conflict and aiding Iran's economic recovery.

The internal power struggle was further highlighted when Ghalibaf’s televised interview about the US deal was abruptly cut, triggering public outcry and calls for the dismissal of the state broadcasting chief aligned with hardliners. Four senior Iranian officials and two Revolutionary Guards members told The New York Times that a fierce battle for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s support is underway, as control over Iran’s future hangs in the balance.

Since the war’s outbreak, Revolutionary Guards generals have effectively run the country, although Raisi, Araghchi, and Ghalibaf have pushed the agreement. Vice President Mohammad Jafar Qalibaf Panah suggested the Supreme Leader no longer has the final say, signaling a shift in decision-making. Meanwhile, Khamenei’s son Mojtaba, who has not appeared publicly or at his father’s funeral, faces questions about his political future amid these divisions.

Economic pressures also influenced Khamenei’s reluctant backing of the deal. Raisi reportedly threatened resignation over worsening conditions, while the central bank governor warned of a severe financial crisis and shortages of food and medicine by August if the US naval blockade continues. Khamenei ultimately authorized Raisi to proceed with the agreement if supported by the Supreme National Security Council. Security concerns prevented Mojtaba Khamenei from attending the burial in Mashhad, fearing Israeli assassination attempts or surveillance.

This public display of factionalism exposes the fragile state of Iran’s leadership amid ongoing external conflict and internal power struggles.