Large gatherings in Leh and Srinagar as West Asia tensions remain high
March 1, 2026: Images from Leh in Ladakh showed large gatherings of the Shia community mourning the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Participants, dressed in black — the traditional colour of mourning in Shia observance — were seen holding religious assemblies and offering prayers. Similar scenes were reported earlier from Srinagar, reflecting the emotional connection many in the community feel toward the late Iranian leader.
Even as mourning ceremonies continue, tensions across West Asia remain elevated. While public rhetoric between Iran and the United States has intensified, there are indications that regional powers such as the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain may be exploring backchannel diplomacy to contain the crisis.
Former US President Donald Trump has reiterated demands including regime change in Iran and strict curbs on its nuclear and missile programmes. With Tehran describing Khamenei’s death as martyrdom and vowing retaliation, prospects for open negotiations appear challenging, even as quiet diplomatic efforts reportedly continue behind the scenes.