TEHRAN, IRAN February 28, 2026 – In scenes of raw emotion and defiance, civilians across Iran took to the streets in jubilation following widespread reports that Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, 86, has been killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli military operation.
A viral video posted on X (formerly Twitter) by the account @BRICSinfo, captioned **”JUST IN: Civilians in Iran seen celebrating the death of Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei,”** shows crowds cheering, honking car horns, waving flags, and dancing in the streets late Saturday night. The footage, which has rapidly spread across social media, captures residents leaning from windows, lighting fireworks, and playing celebratory music in what appears to be neighborhoods in Tehran and other cities.
The post, viewed more than 13,000 times within hours, has sparked global attention amid the fast-moving developments.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced Khamenei’s death on Truth Social, describing the longtime Iranian leader as “one of the most evil people in History” and hailing the strikes as “justice” for victims of the regime. Israeli officials confirmed that Khamenei was killed in an airstrike on his compound in Tehran during Operation Epic Fury, a massive predawn assault launched by the U.S. and Israel targeting Iranian military and leadership sites.
Multiple international outlets, including CNN, Reuters, NPR, NBC News, The Associated Press, and The Wall Street Journal, have reported the death based on U.S. and Israeli intelligence sources. Celebrations were also reported among Iranian diaspora communities, including large gatherings in Los Angeles.
Iranian state media, including Tasnim and Mehr news agencies, has pushed back, claiming Khamenei remains “steadfast and firm in commanding the field.” However, independent verifications by outlets such as AFP and Iran International have corroborated footage of street celebrations inside Iran, with witnesses describing scenes of relief and joy after decades of repression under the Islamic Republic.
The reported death marks the end of an era for the 47-year-old Islamic Revolution. Khamenei succeeded Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini in 1989 and oversaw Iran’s nuclear program, regional proxy conflicts, and strict domestic policies that fueled widespread discontent.
As of press time, the situation remains fluid, with ongoing strikes reported and global leaders reacting cautiously. Further updates are expected as the international community monitors developments in the Middle East.
Source: Viral X post by @BRICSinfo (ID: 2027885631435624926) and cross-verified reports from CNN, Reuters, AFP, and others.
This story is developing. Life News Agency will provide continuous updates.
About The Author
