Iran Strikes: Why Iranians Celebrated—and Why It Divides Western Activists

The planned funeral for Iran’s former Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, has undergone multiple revisions this week, sparking speculation and raising questions about the stability of the Islamic Republic. Whereas initial reports suggested a grand, nationally televised event, the shifting arrangements reflect mounting security concerns, uncertainty surrounding potential foreign attendance, and unresolved questions about succession. This delay, coupled with reports of celebrations within Iran following confirmation of Khamenei’s death, underscores a complex and potentially volatile moment for the country.

A Divided Response: Celebrations Within Iran and Western Protests

The reaction to Khamenei’s death has been strikingly divergent. While some Western protests have featured placards supporting the very regime responsible for the deaths of Iranians, many within Iran itself have openly celebrated. Footage circulating online, reviewed by Iran International, shows Iranians dancing in the streets, some even performing the “Y.M.C.A.” dance popularized by Donald Trump, a cultural irony given the song’s rise coincided with the 1979 Iranian Revolution. Videos likewise depict Iranians thanking President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, expressing hope for political change. One woman is heard shouting “Bibi, we are happy!” while others flash peace signs, welcoming the joint US-Israel military strikes.

This internal reaction isn’t necessarily about ideological alignment with foreign leaders, but rather a desperate desire for change after decades of repression. As Siavash Rokni, an Iran pop culture expert, explained, “Iranians will leverage any opportunity to bypass the Islamic Republic to assure the fall of the Islamic Republic and the institution of a democracy.” Khorso Isfahani, an Iran analyst with NUFDI, framed the reaction as the culmination of decades of struggle, stating, “Iranians have been on the front line of fighting against Islamist fascist occupation of Iran for the past five decades.”

The Shifting Funeral Plans and Security Concerns

The repeated revisions to the funeral plans are a clear indication of the anxieties within the Iranian government. The initial intention was likely to project an image of unity and strength, but the potential for unrest and demonstrations has forced a reassessment. The uncertainty over foreign attendance further complicates matters. While invitations were reportedly extended to various international figures, the current geopolitical climate and the potential for diplomatic fallout make their participation unlikely. David Patrikarakos, a British journalist of part-Iranian origin, noted that many Western activists fail to grasp the context of the situation, often “pronouncing upon this” without understanding the lived experiences of Iranians.

Historical Context: From the Shah to the Islamic Republic

To understand the current situation, it’s crucial to examine Iran’s recent history. The 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew the Pahlavi dynasty under Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, establishing the Islamic Republic under Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. Iran, officially the Islamic Republic of Iran, has a long and complex history, tracing its roots back to ancient civilizations like the Median and Achaemenid empires. The current political system, a unitary presidential theocratic Islamic republic, vests ultimate authority in the Supreme Leader, a position held by Khamenei until his death. The transition of power is a critical moment, and the delays in finalizing funeral arrangements suggest a power struggle is underway. The current President is Masoud Pezeshkian, and the Speaker of the Assembly is Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, according to the latest information available as of March 6, 2026.

The Role of External Actors: US, Israel, and Regional Dynamics

The involvement of external actors, particularly the United States and Israel, is a significant factor in the current situation. US Senator Ted Cruz recently stated that the objective of the US-Israel military campaign is to remove the Islamic Republic from power, as reported by Iran International. This statement reflects a long-standing US policy of seeking to contain Iran’s regional influence and prevent the development of nuclear weapons. Israel views Iran as an existential threat, citing its support for militant groups and its nuclear ambitions. The recent military strikes, can be seen as part of a broader effort to weaken the Iranian regime. However, the impact of these strikes on the internal dynamics within Iran is complex and unpredictable. While some Iranians may welcome external intervention as a catalyst for change, others may view it as a foreign imposition that could further destabilize the country.

Succession and the Future of the Islamic Republic

The question of who will succeed Khamenei is paramount. The Supreme Leader is the ultimate authority in Iran, responsible for overseeing all branches of government and guiding the country’s overall policy. The succession process is not clearly defined in the Iranian constitution, leaving room for maneuvering and potential conflict. Possible candidates include figures within the clergy and the Revolutionary Guard, but none currently possess the same level of authority and influence as Khamenei. The delay in finalizing the funeral arrangements may be linked to efforts to secure a consensus candidate and prevent a power vacuum. The outcome of this succession struggle will have profound implications for Iran’s domestic and foreign policies.

What’s Confirmed vs. Unclear

Confirmed: Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran, has died. Celebrations have occurred within Iran following the confirmation of his death. Funeral arrangements have been repeatedly revised, indicating internal anxieties. The US and Israel have engaged in military strikes against Iran.

Unclear: The exact cause of Khamenei’s death remains unconfirmed. The identity of his successor is yet to be determined. The extent of foreign attendance at the funeral is uncertain. The long-term impact of the recent military strikes on the Iranian regime is unknown.

Looking Ahead: Procedural Next Steps and Potential Scenarios

The immediate next steps involve finalizing the funeral arrangements and initiating the process of selecting a new Supreme Leader. The Assembly of Experts, a body of 88 clerics, is responsible for choosing the next Supreme Leader. This process could take weeks or even months, depending on the level of consensus among the members. Simultaneously, the Iranian government will likely attempt to maintain stability and prevent widespread unrest. Increased security measures are expected, and any form of dissent may be met with swift repression. The international community will be closely monitoring the situation, with a particular focus on Iran’s nuclear program and its regional activities. The potential for escalation remains high, and the coming weeks will be critical in determining the future of Iran and the wider Middle East.