Story perspectives

Journalist's Slip Sparks Outrage, Dismissals During Revolution Celebration

2/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Musab Rasoulizad, a journalist, faced backlash after mistakenly chanting 'Death to Khamenei' during a televised celebration of the Islamic Revolution's 47th anniversary.
The incident occurred in Sistan-Baluchistan province as he repeated crowd chants.
Rasoulizad apologized, calling it a "slip of the tongue," but the moment went viral and led to the dismissal of his broadcast director and suspensions.
Khamenei said the celebrations showed unity despite anti-regime protests and urged cohesion.

History

Historical Context

The 1979 Iranian Revolution, led by Ayatollah Khomeini, overthrew the Pahlavi monarchy, which had faced backlash for its Westernization and repression. Following the Shah's departure on January 16, 1979, Khomeini returned to Iran on February 1, 1979, establishing a theocratic regime. The recent backlash against journalist Musab Rasoulizad highlights ongoing tensions and the regime's struggle to maintain control amid persistent dissent.

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Story summary

Musab Rasoulizad, a journalist, faced backlash after mistakenly chanting 'Death to Khamenei' during a televised celebration of the Islamic Revolution's 47th anniversary.
The incident occurred in Sistan-Baluchistan province as he repeated crowd chants.
Rasoulizad apologized, calling it a "slip of the tongue," but the moment went viral and led to the dismissal of his broadcast director and suspensions.
Khamenei said the celebrations showed unity despite anti-regime protests and urged cohesion.

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