Tehran, March 11 — Large crowds of people filled Revolution Square in Iran’s capital, Tehran, on Tuesday as they participated in a funeral procession for those killed in recent US and Israeli military strikes. The event, reported by Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), honored both military personnel and civilians who died in the attacks, which Iranian authorities have labeled ‘acts of terrorism.’

Religious Significance Adds to Emotional Weight

The procession took place on the 21st day of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and reflection. This date also coincides with the anniversary of the martyrdom of Imam Ali, a revered figure in Shia Islam. The religious context added deep emotional weight to the ceremony, drawing thousands of mourners to the Shrine of the Martyrs in southern Tehran.

According to IRIB, the event was attended by many residents who came to pay tribute to those who lost their lives in the attacks. The procession moved from Revolution Square through the city, a route that symbolizes both the political and spiritual significance of the occasion.

Human Rights Activists Report Rising Casualties

The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported that in the last 24 hours, at least 202 attacks across 106 incidents were recorded in 19 Iranian provinces, resulting in 53 casualties. The attacks targeted Tehran as well as central and southern regions of the country, with one of the most severe incidents occurring at an intersection along Tehran’s Resalat Highway, causing multiple civilian deaths and injuries.

Since the conflict began on February 28, HRANA has documented 1,262 civilian fatalities, including at least 200 children and 190 military fatalities. It also reported 335 unclassified fatalities. These figures represent minimum confirmed numbers and are subject to updates as verification continues, according to HRANA.

The Iranian Ministry of Health reported that over 15,000 citizens have been injured since the conflict began, with 12,495 treated and discharged, 670 surgeries performed, and 1,682 still hospitalised, according to HRANA. The ministry also noted injuries to 12 healthcare workers and damage to 87 health units, 24 medical centres, 21 emergency bases, and 18 ambulances.

Escalating Tensions and Regional Impact

The funeral procession and the reported casualties underscore the deepening regional tensions between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The attacks have caused widespread disruption and fear among civilians, with many Iranians expressing concern over the growing number of casualties and the impact on daily life.

HRANA emphasized that official cumulative figures cannot be precisely tied to individual incidents and are therefore not included in event-based counts but serve as a record of official statements.

The events in Iran have drawn international attention, with analysts warning of further escalation in the region. The United Nations has called for an immediate ceasefire and urged all parties to de-escalate the situation to prevent further loss of life.

As the conflict continues, the international community remains watchful, with upcoming diplomatic meetings and potential military responses looming on the horizon. The situation remains highly volatile, with the potential for further violence and humanitarian crises.