Bay Area Iranian community takes to streets of SF in celebration, hope for regime change

"He has been announced killed, and it's 80% of the way. The last 20% is the Iranian government -- it is the last hill, one last punch from the people. People have to make a decision for the future of Iran. This could be our last chance. This is time to stand up for our future."

"We support the U.S. attack on the occupying regime in Iran, and we feel that the Islamist regime is an occupying force that has occupied Iran for the past 47 years and has basically usurped the self-determination rights of the Iranian people."

"You can hear the loud music. You can hear people in a celebratory mood. We still need to continue, but we still need to continue. This is just the first step. It's a big step for Iranians, but it is one step toward the freedom of getting rid of the regime."

Hundreds of Iranian residents from across the Bay Area assembled in San Francisco following the announcement of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei's death. Participants expressed support for U.S. military action against what they characterized as an occupying Islamist regime that has ruled Iran for 47 years. The gathering maintained a celebratory atmosphere with music and upbeat energy, contrasting with previous demonstrations at the Ferry Building. Attendees viewed the event as a pivotal moment for Iranian self-determination and freedom, describing it as a crucial first step toward regime change. The crowd observed a moment of silence for three U.S. service members killed in related military operations, while emphasizing the need for continued momentum toward Iranian liberation.

Read at ABC7 San Francisco