On July 2, state-aligned media focused overwhelmingly on the funeral of the 'martyred leader,' with extensive coverage of dignitaries' arrivals, security preparations, and public mourning. This drowned out most other domestic stories. Meanwhile, foreign-based outlets tracked the hardening of Iran's stance on two fronts: Qalibaf's repeated refusal to grant IAEA access to damaged nuclear sites, and warnings of a decisive response to any US interference in the Strait of Hormuz. The Doha talks were paused until after the funeral, with the next round set for July 18. Reports emerged of Iran rejecting a US financial offer to withdraw from the Strait, and CENTCOM claiming to have downed 14 Iranian drones over Bahrain. The day saw a split screen: a nation in official mourning and a diplomatic-military standoff intensifying.