‘I thought people hated him’: Trump says ‘shocked’ by crowds at Khamenei’s funeral
US President Donald Trump said he was surprised to see so many people mourning at the funeral of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He said the public turnout was unexpected because he believed many Iranians did not support the late leader.
Speaking in a phone interview with Axios, Trump said, “I thought people hated him.” His remarks came while discussing the situation in Iran following Khamenei’s funeral.
Trump also made a strong statement about the funeral gathering during the interview. He said he could “eliminate everyone” attending the funeral, but added that “there will be no one left to negotiate” if such an action were taken.
The US president also confirmed that Washington and Tehran had agreed to temporarily pause their negotiations. According to Trump, both countries decided to wait until the funeral ceremonies were over before continuing diplomatic talks.
He further said, “Neither side will shoot the other during the funeral proceedings.” The comment suggested that both sides wanted to avoid any escalation while the funeral events were taking place.
The temporary pause comes as both countries continue efforts to keep diplomatic communication open despite ongoing tensions. Observers believe the next phase of talks will be closely watched because of the sensitive regional situation.
Also read: Iran strengthens military during ceasefire as Pakistan may host key nuclear talks
Trump’s comments show that diplomacy and security concerns are moving side by side. The pause in talks may help lower immediate tensions, but future negotiations will remain difficult unless both countries continue to engage through dialogue.
