The mourning show: the politics of Khamenei’s funeral

The funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran functions as a strategic display of regime resilience, signaling a potential referendum on the future of the Islamic Republic amid ongoing regional tensions. Simultaneously, Japan is undergoing a profound transformation in family law, as the recent introduction of joint custody replaces an eight-decade-old "clean break" model that historically marginalized non-custodial parents. Meanwhile, the centennial of America’s Route 66 highlights the highway's enduring legacy as a cultural artery for migration and the birth of car-centric tourism. Despite the economic decline of many roadside towns following the expansion of the interstate system, the route remains a symbol of the American West, attracting travelers who seek to experience the country’s history firsthand. These developments reflect broader shifts in political authority, social norms, and national identity across these distinct global contexts.