Why Iran’s Supreme Leader Chose This Iconic Mosque for His Rare Sermon

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered his first Friday sermon in nearly five years at the historic Imam Khomeini Mosque, stating that Israel “won’t last long” and defending Iran’s attacks on Tel Aviv. The significance of Khamenei addressing thousands from a mosque pivotal in the 1979 Islamic Revolution was not overlooked.

The Imam Khomeini Mosque, formerly known as the Shah Mosque, is one of Iran’s historical architectural marvels located in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar. Constructed in the 18th century during the reign of Fath-Ali Shah Qajar, this mosque represents a vital part of Iran’s heritage.

This mosque symbolizes resistance against the rule of Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who faced growing unpopularity after his ‘White Revolution’ in 1963, which was seen by Islamic leaders as westernization. Ayatollah Khamenei and Ruhollah Khomeini played significant roles in the opposition to the Shah’s regime.

Khamenei stated, “The move taken by our armed forces was the least punishment in the face of the crimes of the Zionist regime.” He emphasized that the massive turnout at his sermon demonstrated popular support for Iran’s leadership.

The Supreme Leader’s speech aimed to boost national morale amid rising tensions with Israel. This public appearance marked Khamenei’s first sermon since January 2020 and was delivered against a backdrop of recent escalations, including missile attacks on Tel Aviv.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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