Khamenei's death: 'Never thought I would see this day'

"Last night, scores of people in my neighborhood in western Tehran came out to the streets to celebrate [Khamenei's death]. People were honking their cars continuously. I am truly happy. I never thought I would see this day. But today, after state media confirmed Khamenei's death, many of the regime's supporters gathered in central Tehran and held mourning ceremonies."

"I feel that my shoulders have been relieved of a heavy burden that I had carried my entire life. I hope the dignity and joy return to my country."

"Khamenei, who was appointed supreme leader in 1989 after the death of Ruhollah Khomeini, the Islamic Republic's founder, ruled the country with an iron fist, leaving no room for dissent or political freedom."

Iranian state television and IRNA news agency confirmed the death of 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei following an Israeli air force attack. Khamenei, who ruled Iran since 1989 with authoritarian control, was described by President Trump as one of history's most evil figures. The announcement triggered contrasting reactions throughout Iran: opposition groups celebrated in the streets with car horns and gatherings, while regime supporters held mourning ceremonies in central Tehran. Iranians interviewed expressed relief and hope for change, with some describing the burden of his leadership finally lifted. Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed shah, suggested any successor from within the regime would lack legitimacy.

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