Red flag raised at Jamkaran mosque as Iran reels from US–Israel strikes

Iran has raised a red “flag of revenge” atop the dome of the Jamkaran Mosque in Qom, signalling mounting anger and calls for retribution following the confirmed death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a US–Israeli airstrike on Tehran.

The flag, traditionally raised only during times of intense grievance, is symbolic of a desire for vengeance and is seen as an expression of collective outrage among many Iranians.

The red flag flown over Jamkaran — a site of great religious significance for many Shiite Muslims — reflects the authorities’ intention to publicly signal that the conflict will not be allowed to fade quietly.

The move underscores the deep emotions stirred by the strike that killed Khamenei and sparked waves of protest, mourning and calls for justice across Iran.

State media and international reports say the flag came amid street demonstrations and scenes of grief in Tehran, where black smoke was seen rising near parts of the capital following the air operation.

Jubilation by some and somber remembrance by others marked the city’s atmosphere, illustrating divided reactions to the leadership’s death and the military offensive that brought it about.

The military action that led to Khamenei’s death was part of an escalating confrontation between the United States and Israel on one side and Iran on the other.

The strikes, which struck deep into Iranian territory, followed years of mounting mistrust over Tehran’s nuclear program and regional influence. Israeli leaders have publicly stated that the operation targeted regime leadership and infrastructure, and world capitals are watching the aftermath closely for signs of broader conflict.

Following the strikes, emergency alerts were sent to residents in cities such as Dubai, urging them to seek shelter amid reports of ongoing missile threats and blasts in the Gulf region.

Iranian forces were reported to have fired retaliatory missiles at multiple Gulf destinations, prompting security responses and raising tension levels among neighboring countries.