TEHRAN – The late Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, who consistently emphasized national unity and viewed division as a deep wound to Iran’s long-standing identity, has now—through his martyrdom—become a central symbol of empathy and solidarity for all Iranians. He sacrificed his life to preserve the integrity of Iran.

He was martyred at the very first moment of the US and Israeli attacks on February 28th. On Thursday, the people of Tehran mourned the fortieth day of his absence, marking one of the most emotional days since his loss.

Over the past 40 days, these same people have endured severe assaults, lost loved ones, and witnessed the destruction of hospitals, schools, and universities. Yet they gathered together to ease the weight of this grief and to show that they have understood his teachings and will honor his legacy—above all, unity.

From the early hours of the ceremony, beginning at 9:40 a.m., Jomhouri Square in central Tehran was filled with mourners. They moved eastward toward the site of the attack, the Leader’s house and office. Chants of “Ya Hussein” and “Hayhat Minna al-Dhilla” echoed through the streets. Some sat on the ground in tears, while others walked, chanted, and waved Iranian flags.

As time passed and more people approached the neighborhood surrounding the Leader’s residence and office, the crowd grew so large that by the end of the ceremony, major streets in Tehran were overwhelmed with traffic.

The people of Tehran mourned the fortieth day of their Leader’s martyrdom together—he who always warned against polarization and urged unity among Iranians. He is no longer here to witness how his martyrdom has strengthened the nation’s cohesion.

Now, more than ever, people understand that the identity called Iran and the concept of the Islamic Republic can only endure through unity. If even for a moment this unity is neglected, Iran’s enemies will seize the opportunity to exploit divisions and attempt to tear apart this ancient civilization.