Thousands of Iranians gathered in central Tehran on Saturday for the funeral of approximately 60 individuals—including high-ranking Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commanders and nuclear scientists—killed during a recent 12-day military campaign by Israel. The somber procession commenced at Enqelab (Revolution) Square, with flag-draped coffins paraded via trucks through major thoroughfares before concluding at Azadi (Freedom) Square. State media broadcast the ceremony live, highlighting images of the deceased and featuring national rallying cries against Israel and the U.S.

The funeral honored notable figures such as IRGC Chief Gen. Hossein Salami, Aerospace Force Commander Gen. Amir Ali Hajizadeh, and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Gen. Mohammad Bagheri—each reportedly killed on June 13, the initial day of Israel’s Operation “Rising Lion.” In addition to military casualties, the ceremony commemorated several nuclear researchers and civilians. Flags, portraits, and a massive commemorative banner were displayed prominently at stadium venues and along the procession route.

Iran’s Health Ministry reported that around 610–627 people, including non-combatants, were killed and upwards of 4,700 wounded during the strikes—a toll that remains difficult to independently verify due to media restrictions. Israeli sources concede around 30 senior commanders and 11 nuclear scientists were targeted during the campaign, while Iranian state media claim many more were killed.

The scale of this state funeral reflects the high political importance Tehran attributes to these losses. Attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian and top IRGC leadership, the event seeks to underline Iran’s resilience and to link national identity with scientific and military sacrifice.

By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com