Celebration and mourning unfolded side by side across Iran following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking an extraordinary public response to the end of his 36-year rule.

In Tehran’s Enghelab Square and other city centres, thousands dressed in black gathered to mourn, waving Iranian flags and holding portraits of the late supreme leader. Many chanted slogans against the United States and Israel, vowing revenge.

Streets echo with contrasting emotions

At the same time, videos circulating on social media showed scenes of jubilation in several neighbourhoods. Fireworks lit the night sky, motorists honked their horns, and families gathered on balconies celebrating what some described as a long-awaited moment.

Nazanin, a 24-year-old media professional in Tehran, said the streets were filled with people celebrating. “No one outside can understand what many Iranians who suffered under this regime feel right now,” she said, referencing the deaths of protesters during the 2022 “Women, Life, Freedom” movement, including Nika Shakarami, Sarina Esmailzadeh and Mahsa Amini.

Human rights groups have previously reported thousands killed or injured during crackdowns on anti-government protests, with tens of thousands arrested.

Fear and uncertainty remain

While many celebrated, others expressed deep apprehension. Atousa Mirzade, a teacher from Shiraz, said she feared instability. “I cannot celebrate the killing of our leader by a foreign power. I worry about what comes next for our country,” she said.

In Mashhad, Khamenei’s hometown, students reportedly rode through the streets chanting in support of the cleric, while others gathered in Arak to share tea amid a tense but hopeful atmosphere.

Analysts say the sharply contrasting reactions reveal profound fault lines within Iranian society. For some, the moment represents relief and the hope of reform; for others, it is a period of grief and uncertainty.

As Iran stands at a historic crossroads, the coming days are expected to shape the nation’s political and social future in unpredictable ways.