On June 4, tens of thousands of Iranians streamed to the mausoleum of Ayatollah Khomeini on the outskirts of Tehran to mark the 37th anniversary of the death of the first supreme spiritual leader of Iran's Islamic Revolution.
The event unfolded as Iran faces multiple political and economic challenges, including U.S. sanctions and a wave of domestic protests. Iranian leaders delivered speeches extolling Khomeini's legacy and called for national unity.
Local media reported that this year's commemoration was larger than previous ones, drawing citizens from various provinces. Activities included Koran recitations, marches, and political addresses.
Khomeini, who led the 1979 Islamic Revolution, died in 1989 at age 89. He is regarded as the founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran and his influence still profoundly shapes Iranian politics and society.
The annual event attracts millions of participants, underscoring the enduring power of Khomeini's ideology, especially as the country seeks to navigate crises.