Trump says he thought Iranians 'hated him' as millions mourn Khamenei
Speaking during an ongoing conflict in the Middle East, Trump said Iranian leaders gathered for Khamenei's funeral could have been targeted but that he opted against taking action
US President Donald Trump said he was surprised by the scale of public mourning during funeral ceremonies for late Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, saying he had expected a different reaction from the Iranian public.
As millions of people gathered for ceremonies honouring Khamenei, who ruled Iran for 36 years, Trump questioned whether the public displays of grief reflected genuine sentiment, says Dawn.
Trump said he "thought people hated him," referring to Khamenei and the public response following his death.
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He later added, "Maybe it's fake tears," expressing scepticism over scenes of mourning during the ceremonies.
The funeral events, which began on 4 July and are scheduled to conclude on 9 July, have drawn large crowds across Iran, including observances in the holy city of Qom and a final burial in Khamenei's hometown of Mashhad.
Participants at the gatherings have reportedly been heard chanting "Death To America, Death To Israel", while some senior Iranian officials were seen crying during farewell events.
Trump's comments came amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran. During the funeral period, he also said the United States had agreed to temporarily pause hostilities and negotiations with Iran and suggested Iranian leaders were seeking a settlement following recent military confrontations.
Trump additionally said senior Iranian officials attending the funeral could have been targeted but that he decided against such action because negotiations could still take place.
Khamenei was killed on 28 Feb. 2026, during the start of US and Israeli strikes against Iran, according to the information provided.
