Celebrations in Tehran Amid Unconfirmed Khamenei Death Reports

Celebrations occurred in Tehran late Saturday night after unconfirmed reports suggested the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, allegedly due to an Israeli airstrike. The reports led to loud cheers and fireworks around 11 p.m. local time, as videos circulated on social media showing the festivities.

However, there was no official confirmation from Iranian authorities regarding Khamenei's fate. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier claimed signs indicated Khamenei's demise, while U.S.

President Donald Trump responded to questions about the situation. Israeli media reported that 30 bombs were dropped on the compound associated with Khamenei during a joint operation.

Despite the celebrations, many residents in Tehran did not flood the streets, reflecting a lingering fear following a deadly crackdown on anti-government protests last month. Human rights organizations reported approximately 7,000 deaths during the unrest, although Iranian officials acknowledged around 3,000 deaths attributed to violence described as terrorist acts fueled by the United States and Israel.