Despite a video message released prior, where he appeared weak after recent U.S. bombings of Iranian nuclear sites, Khamenei's attendance at the ceremony surprised many. Dressed in a traditional clerical robe and a checkered kaffiyeh, he entered the event to chants of “Heydar, Heydar” from the crowd, which included key government officials. However, he chose not to make a speech during this gathering. The leader's long absence from public life was unprecedented in his three-decade rule, raising concerns about his stability during these turbulent times. Khamenei now faces heightened scrutiny as the region grapples with ongoing conflicts and unrest.