Celebrations erupted in cities across Iran following the confirmation of the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the country’s Supreme Leader, on Saturday, March 1st, 2026. The announcement, made by Iranian state media, came after a joint military operation by the United States and Israel targeting Khamenei’s residence.
Videos circulating on social media, and reported by The Post, show large gatherings in cities including Tehran, Shiraz, and Karaj, with people dancing, chanting, and honking car horns. In Shiraz, footage captured scenes of fireworks and traditional music accompanying the celebrations. Similar scenes unfolded in Fuladshahr, located in central Iran. Three Iranian citizens, speaking to The New York Times, described jubilant reactions in their respective cities, including people shouting “Freedom!” from their windows.
The response to Khamenei’s death has been far from uniform. Demonstrations have taken place globally, with some protesting the US-Israeli military action and others celebrating the removal of Khamenei from power. In New York City, hundreds gathered in Times Square, with reactions split between opposition to further conflict and expressions of approval for the operation. Iranian-Americans were among those present, voicing differing opinions on the situation. In Canberra, Australia, approximately 200 people of Iranian origin and supporters congregated outside the Iranian embassy, displaying Australian, American, and Israeli flags, as well as pre-revolutionary Iranian flags. The Australian government has formally expressed support for the US actions, although emphasizing the need to protect civilians and prevent regional escalation.
The death of Khamenei, who had served as Supreme Leader since 1989, follows a period of internal unrest in Iran. Earlier in January, the Khamenei regime used force to suppress widespread protests, resulting in a significant number of casualties. Many of those celebrating his death are believed to be connected to those earlier protests, either as friends or family members of those killed.
Reports from Euronews indicate that violent clashes have also occurred in Karachi, Pakistan, following the news, with an unspecified number of casualties. The international community remains on high alert as the situation in Iran and the wider region continues to evolve. As of this report, no official statement has been released by the Iranian government regarding a succession plan or future course of action.
