In the wake of a major escalation in the Middle East, Iranian-born actress Elnaaz Norouzi took to social media to react to reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli military strike on Iran’s territory.
Norouzi — known internationally for her work in film and television — shared several posts on Instagram, calling the news “the most unbelievable” and declaring “God is great.” In one clip she was seen dancing and celebrating, referring to the moment as one that many Iranians “have been waiting for for 47 years.”
In her stories, the actress also described Khamenei as a “dictator” and celebrated what she described as the end of decades of authoritarian rule. Another story feature included thank-you messages and celebratory emojis.
The reported death of Khamenei follows a series of coordinated strikes by United States and Israeli forces against strategic targets in Iran, a campaign that has sent shockwaves across the region and triggered intense diplomatic tensions.
Iranian state media have announced a period of national mourning, while social media has been filled with a wide range of reactions — from jubilation among some Iranian citizens and diaspora communities to grief and condemnation among others.
The rapidly evolving situation continues to draw global attention as nations and world leaders respond to the unfolding conflict.