Khamenei Ends 37-Year Ritual After Trump’s Attack Threat

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei missed the annual February 8 air force commanders’ meeting this year, breaking a 37-year tradition he followed since becoming leader in 1989. Normally, Khamenei attends the event that marks the historic 1979 pledge of allegiance to Ruhollah Khomeini by air force officers. This year, however, he did not attend. Instead, Iran’s Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Major General Abdolrahim Mousavi, met senior air force officials in his place.

Khamenei’s absence comes amid heightened tensions with the United States. The annual ceremony has long symbolised unity between Iran’s clerical leadership and its military. Observers noted that state media did not emphasise his absence, a contrast with past years when he personally led the event. Analysts believe his decision may reflect a strategic choice to avoid public exposure during a period of rising US pressure.

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Khamenei Skips Air Force Rising US Tensions and Strategic Caution

Relations between Tehran and Washington remain strained over nuclear talks and Iran’s missile programme. The US has increased its military presence in the Gulf amid fears of escalation. Reports in international media describe movements of US aircraft carriers and fighter jets in the region. Some analysts say Khamenei’s absence may also show a shift toward caution in Iran’s strategic posture.

Iranian leaders have repeatedly warned that any US attack would spark a wider conflict in the Middle East. Iran’s insistence on discussing only its nuclear programme in talks, against US demands on missiles, has further complicated negotiations. Khamenei’s missing the air force event has fuelled debate about what Tehran hopes to signal at this sensitive moment.

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