Ali Khamenei’s body will become a political prop, lying in state in Tehran’s Grand Mosalla—a fitting display for a leader whose reign has been marked by tightly controlled messaging and authoritarian rule. It’s a choreographed event specifically designed to reinforce the regime’s grip on power, while the state media spins tales of martyrdom and unity.

If you think CNN or the BBC will dissect this with any critical lens, think again. They’ll gloss over the repressive tactics of Khamenei’s regime in favor of solemn tributes. You can bet on a lackluster analysis of what this “national mourning” really means for ordinary Iranians suffering under economic strife. Instead of interrogating the legitimacy of a system that silences dissent, they’ll proudly showcase the “life and legacy” of a leader who’s done more for state control than actual freedom.

Meanwhile, Fox News might take the angle of “What does this mean for U.S. relations?” but their narrative will inevitably skew toward American exceptionalism rather than the realities on the ground. None will grapple with the systemic issues plaguing Iran—corruption, poverty, and human rights abuses—as they choose safe soundbites over inconvenient truths.

This is the media circus we live in: a blend of soft journalism wrapped in nationalist rhetoric. These so-called thought leaders will dance around Khamenei’s legacy while remaining woefully ignorant—or worse, intentionally blind—to the real impact of his rule.

Make no mistake; this is a moment of political calculation, not a somber farewell. The regime’s carefully orchestrated mourning will not bring justice or reform for the Iranian people; it’s merely a spectacle for the powers that be.