A wave of shock and celebration has swept across Iran after the death of Ali Khamenei was confirmed on Sunday. Khamenei was killed in a US-Israeli attack on Saturday. The early morning state broadcast announcing his death was emotional, with the anchor’s voice trembling as he confirmed the passing of the leader who had ruled the country for 36 years.

The government announced 40 days of national mourning. However, reactions across the country were mixed. While some cities witnessed public mourning, videos also surfaced online showing people celebrating in the streets. Reactions were also strong in international media. On Sky News Australia, host Rita Panahi delivered a blunt and fiery response live on air. Speaking in Persian, she strongly criticised Khamenei, calling him a dictator and saying, “The dictator is dead.” She added, "A message to the late Supreme Leader: You son of a b*tch, burn in Hell!"

How Did The Anchor React?

Panahi, who fled Iran as a child, said she never thought she would see this day. She described Iran as being on the verge of liberation following the death of Khamenei. Panahi also heaped praises on US President Donald Trump for authorising the strikes, and conducting the operation named “Operation Epic Fury.”
The clip of her remarks quickly went viral and received mixed reactions online. A user said, "Sky News Australia is a whole different vibe". Another commented, "Such mocking is needed so kids won't grow to become like him."

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Who Is Rita Panahi?

Born on March 3, 1976, Rita Panahi is an American and Australian political commentator and columnist. She is of Iranian descent. In 1984, her family, targeted by Khamenei goverment was accepted by Australia as refugees after they left Iran. She is the host of The Rita Panahi Show and Lefties Losing It on Sky News Australia.

Meanwhile, several videos on social media showed scenes of celebration in different parts of Iran. Reuters reviewed several videos, which showed people in Dehloran in Ilam province cheering as a statue was toppled. In Karaj, near Tehran, residents were reportedly dancing in the streets. Similar scenes were shared from Izeh in Khuzestan province, reflecting the divided response to the news of Khamenei's demise.

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