Iran Holds State Funeral for Military Leaders and Scientists Killed in Israeli Airstrikes

Iran held a significant state funeral in Tehran to honor approximately 60 individuals—among them senior military commanders, nuclear scientists, civilians, women, and children—who were killed in recent Israeli airstrikes during the June 13-25,Israel-Iran conflict.

The funeral procession began at Enghelab (Revolution) Square and moved through the capital to Azadi Square, with mourners carrying flag-draped coffins and chanting slogans denouncing both Israel and the United States. The Iranian government declared the day a national holiday, and large crowds filled the streets in a powerful display of national mourning.

Among those honored were key military figures including the Commander-in-Chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the Head of the IRGC Aerospace Force, and the Chief of Staff for Iran’s Armed Forces. These top commanders were killed on June 13, when Israeli forces launched an air campaign targeting Iranian nuclear and military sites.

The funeral was attended by Iran’s president, foreign minister, and other top military and political leaders. The Supreme Leader did not appear publicly but issued a statement declaring the end of hostilities a strategic success for Iran.

The strikes that initiated the conflict resulted in hundreds of Iranian casualties, with the Health Ministry reporting over 600 dead and thousands injured. Civilian deaths included women and children, intensifying national grief and public anger. Independent activist reports suggested the actual death toll may be significantly higher.

Officials used the funeral to project resilience and unity, framing the loss as a symbol of national dignity and sacrifice. The ceremony marked one of the largest public gatherings since the conflict and reinforced Iran’s stance in the broader regional struggle.

Sources: ABC News, The Guardian, Reuters,