Iran marks Ali Khamenei 40th day amid fragile ceasefire with US

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Iran marks Ali Khamenei 40th day amid fragile ceasefire with US

2026-04-10 14:50 Last Updated At：17:47

Large crowds gathered in Iranian capital of Tehran on Thursday to mark the 40th day since the killing of the country's former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with grief and tension shaping the mood in the capital as the traditional mourning period came to its close.

The 40th day of mourning is a significant moment in Iran, traditionally marking the end of a period of national grief.

Ali Khamenei was killed on February 28 minutes after the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran. Iranian state media confirmed his death the following day, and authorities announced 40 days of public mourning.

Ceremonies began early in the day, with people gathering at Jomhouri Square before moving toward the site of the killing. Many carried flags and portraits of Ali khamenei, saying that they came not only to mourn but also to show their loyalty and respect.

"I am here to show respect for our late supreme leader, as it is the 40th day of his death. I appreciate what he has done, and for the love of our country. I am ready to die for my country," said Fateme Zahra, a Tehran resident.

Government officials also joined the ceremonies, saying that the turnout demonstrated unity and support for the new leadership.

"The large crowds here show that they remember their martyred supreme leader, and that they pay homage to the new leadership. They will stand until the end," said Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization.

Despite Khamenei's death, local political analysts believe the political system in Iran remains stable.

"In the Iranian constitution, the leader is the commander-in-chief. So what you see is the result of a system he set up as the commander-in-chief," said Foad Izadi, a political analyst at the University of Tehran.

The commemorations came amid a fragile two-week ceasefire with the United States, leaving the coming weeks critical for Iran's future.

Spanish public expects PM's China visit to boost bilateral cooperation in multiple sectors

The Spanish people have pinned high hopes on Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's upcoming visit to China, hoping that the visit will result in stronger cooperation in trade, renewable energy and global governance as the two countries look to deepen ties amid a complex international landscape.

The visit, scheduled for April 11 to 15, is Sanchez's fourth visit to China in four years. It follows high-level exchanges between the two countries last year, including visits by the Spanish King and the prime minister. It is widely viewed as a key moment to consolidate bilateral relations and strengthen communication between China and Europe.

In Madrid, residents expressed hope for closer ties.

"I think strengthening cooperation in science, technology and trade is the most important thing for both Spain and China," said Manuel, a local resident.

"I hope more Chinese companies will do business in Spain. Many Chinese firms are strong and active in advanced sectors like renewable energy, where I work. This would bring more business opportunities," said another resident Patricia.

China is a key partner for Spain within the European Union. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both nations, bilateral relations have maintained a high level of development, with solid progress in various fields that has tangibly benefited the people of both countries.

Spanish international relations expert Juan Arguello noted that amid current global energy price volatility and rising geopolitical uncertainty, Spain is seeking more diverse and pragmatic foreign cooperation.

"This visit is of great importance, and the timing is critical, especially with international energy prices continuing to rise. Spain imports a large amount of technology products from China, including batteries. Sanchez is also looking to accelerate the energy transition and open up new markets by deepening ties with China," he said.