In the aftermath of the U.S. strike that eliminated Iran’s Supreme Leader, two American mosques publicly held memorial services honoring Ayatollah Khamenei’s “martyrdom.” A mosque in Manassas, Virginia, referred to him as “our leader” in promotional material for a Ramadan event, while a Michigan-based Islamic center delivered eulogies condemning U.S. military action and repeating Iranian state narratives. The events included speeches framing the strike as immoral and illegitimate, while echoing claims from Tehran that have yet to be independently verified. Federal authorities remain on alert amid rising tensions tied to the expanding regional conflict.

Both mosques have previously faced scrutiny over alleged ties to Iranian-linked organizations and figures. Congressional inquiries in recent years raised concerns about financial connections to entities accused of operating on behalf of the Iranian regime. One imam has publicly acknowledged relationships with former Iranian presidents and reportedly held ideological roles in Iran prior to relocating to the United States. While the majority of Muslim Americans seek peaceful worship and civic participation, these highly visible memorials highlight the reach of Iran’s revolutionary ideology beyond its borders. The battleground is not only overseas — it is ideological, informational, and spiritual. SOURCE: YahooNews