Cuban-American Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart expressed his approval of the potential death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, describing it as a "gift to humanity."
"The removal of Khamenei and other leaders of the terrorist regime is a gift to humanity. After 47 years, I hope the Iranian people can finally decide their own fate," he stated on social media platform X.
He further added, "God bless and protect our troops as they continue this noble effort to eliminate this threat to our national security."
Diaz-Balart's sentiments were echoed by his colleague Maria Elvira Salazar, who also welcomed the potential demise of Khamenei.
"When you see Iranians celebrating and thanking the United States, that tells you everything about this operation and where the people's true allegiance lies," the Republican commented.
"Our actions against the Iranian regime have been decisive and necessary to protect American lives and our national security. We are dismantling its nuclear program, weakening its ballistic missile capabilities, and holding accountable those who, for decades, chanted 'Death to America' and slaughtered more than 30,000 brave Iranians just a month ago. Such a regime lacks legitimacy," she added.
Salazar also praised "President Trump's strong and decisive leadership for acting swiftly and standing with the courageous Iranian people who are desperately crying out for freedom. There is no place for tyrants in the 21st century."
"I will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep our brave soldiers and our president in my prayers," she concluded.
Celebrations in Iran
This Saturday, thousands of Iranians, both within the country and abroad, celebrated Khamenei's downfall, amid reports that he had died following joint attacks by the United States and Israel in the early hours.
Posts shared on platforms like X showed thousands of citizens in the streets during the night, celebrating what they describe as the end of decades of repression under the Islamic Republic.
Some messages refer to a "party for the death of the tyrant" and a people who have "lost their fear."
Currently, there is no detailed official statement from Iranian authorities confirming or denying the situation, but U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at Khamenei's death.
Some videos depict nighttime gatherings with chants for freedom and against the Islamic regime.
Other images, shared from cities like London, Miami, and various locations in Australia, show members of the Iranian diaspora celebrating what they see as the end of a political era.
In London, there were even scenes of Iranians and Israelis celebrating together, a symbolic gesture of unity.
Messages from Iranian users claim that "the people are starting to be free" and that the fall of the religious leader opens the door to profound political change.
In recent years, Iran has experienced a period of intense internal tension, with massive protests against the regime, accusations of repression, restrictions on civil liberties, and growing social discontent, especially among the youth.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Situation in Iran
Has Ayatollah Ali Khamenei been confirmed dead?
As of now, there is no official confirmation from Iranian authorities about the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. However, U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested his death.
What has been the reaction of the Iranian people?
There have been celebrations among Iranians both inside and outside the country, as many view this as an end to decades of repression under the Islamic Republic.
How has the international community responded?
Reactions have varied, with some leaders welcoming the potential change as a positive step for Iranian freedom, while others await official confirmation before commenting.