Khamenei’s Funeral and Trump’s Bragging

July 8, 2026

Following the virtual end of the US-Iran war, mourning the burial of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who had been kept in safe custody for over four months, is being observed across Iran. People are seen beating their chests and weeping in mourning. Khamenei was killed in a US missile attack. People are also chanting “Kill Trump.” At such a time, the right approach is to express sympathy for the Iranians’ immense grief. Even if the US does not harbor good feelings for Iran, it should at least remain silent. However, Donald Trump’s statements at this time, while intended to boost his popularity in the US, have not resonated with Iran and most countries around the world. But as is Trump’s well-known habit, he made two boastful statements during Khamenei’s funeral, even before the July 11th talks. First, he claimed that he had destroyed Iran. He claimed that he had destroyed its air force and navy. If that were true, why would Trump insist on a deal, fearing a loss of popularity or after the parliament had passed a resolution against war? The second boastful claim is that Trump possessed so much power that he could have eliminated Iran’s remaining leadership in one attack. Such statements during a funeral are inappropriate. Iran has responded by saying that the US has neither civility nor honor. In such a situation, is it necessary to create such an atmosphere of harsh, poisonous statements for lasting peace? After such bitter rhetoric, it becomes difficult to hope for peace. Currently, talks are underway between the US and Iran to make the 60-day ceasefire permanent. The next meeting of these talks is scheduled for July 11th. Peace and stability are essential to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open. Whether Iran imposes any fees on ships passing through Hormuz after 60 days or not, the question is that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open. The tragedy of blockade and counterblockade should not stand in the way of the world. Trump’s poisonous statements during Khamenei’s funeral are unacceptable under any circumstances.