Reporting Under Surveillance in Iran
Covering news in Iran has never been easy. The New York Times often reports from outside the country, relying on contacts, verified visuals, and social media. However, journalists Abdi Latif Dahir and Emile Ducke were the first Times reporters to visit Iran since the U.S. and Israel attacked in February.
Accompanied by colleagues from the video department, they traveled from different continents to attend the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader. This event was pivotal, and understanding the constraints faced was crucial.
Mourning in Tehran
Abdi Latif Dahir described the overwhelming scale of the funeral ceremonies, which occurred over several days and cities. In Tehran’s Azadi Square, crowds gathered under the scorching sun. The funeral represented both reverence for Khamenei and highlighted the repression and suffering associated with his rule.
The Times reporter reflected on witnessing the deep veneration from some mourners and the profound pain Khamenei’s legacy inflicted on others.
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