In a dramatic turn of events, Iranians have taken to celebrating the recent death of a significant political figure following an Israeli airstrike on Tuesday. The target of this attack was Ali Larijani, the 67-year-old head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, a critical position within the nation’s political hierarchy.
Among those expressing satisfaction over this news is Parmida Hoseinpour, a prominent Iranian influencer. Her reaction reflects widespread sentiment among citizens, particularly in light of the severe government crackdown earlier this year. That brutal suppression, which occurred in January, resulted in more than 7,000 deaths according to human rights organizations.
Hoseinpour took to Instagram to voice her feelings, stating, “For three months, the names of our dead kept coming out. Now your names are coming out. Burn.” Her words echo the profound anger and grief felt by many Iranians over the loss of life during the government’s harsh actions.
Reports from Iran International, a London-based outlet, describe scenes of jubilation in Tehran’s Chitgar neighborhood. Residents gathered to celebrate the news of Larijani’s demise, an event that has brought a sense of vindication to many who have suffered under the current regime.
Though video footage captured the cheering from high-rise buildings, those celebrating took precautions to remain unseen. This decision underscores the pervasive fear of retaliation by Tehran’s security forces, a common concern for those openly opposing the government.
Video taken from the area captured the cheers from residents in a high-rise building, though the people were kept out of view over fears of retaliation from Tehran’s security forces, according to the outlet.
The celebrations come as anti-regime protests are expected to break out on Wednesday as part of the Chaharshanbe Suri fire festival, which is held before Persian New Year’s.
Larijani was largely seen as the de facto ruler of Iran following the killing of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with the security chief tasked with advising the supreme leader on the nuclear talks with the US.
He was one of 10 Islamic Republic officials who had a $10 million bounty placed on their heads on Friday by the State Department’s Rewards for Justice program.
Larijani had been sanctioned by the Treasury Department in January over Tehran’s violent suppression of nationwide protests.
Iranian state media did not immediately confirm either death but did publish a handwritten note by Larijani commemorating sailors killed in a US attack whose funeral was expected on Tuesday.
