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Many Iranian Americans in Denver Celebrate Khamenei's Death
Local Iranians share mixed reactions to U.S. military action against Iran
Published on Mar. 2, 2026
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Several thousand Iranian Americans living in the Denver metro area have varied reactions to the recent U.S. military action that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. While some express support for the attack and hope for regime change, others worry about the consequences and civilian casualties.
Why it matters
The Iranian American community in Colorado reflects the complex and divided views within the broader Iranian diaspora regarding the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Their perspectives provide insight into how geopolitical events are impacting local immigrant communities.
The details
Many Iranian Americans in Colorado, some of whom fled the country after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, expressed joy and celebration over Khamenei's death. They view the current Iranian regime as oppressive and are hopeful the U.S. military action will lead to positive change. However, others, like Payam Diba whose family owns a local Persian market and restaurant, are more cautious. They worry the U.S. has overstepped in the Middle East and fear the attacks could lead to further violence and civilian casualties.
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, was killed in a U.S. military strike on March 2, 2026.
- Many Iranian Americans in Colorado have been protesting the Iranian regime for years, including demonstrations outside the state capitol building.
The players
Parisa Kariminejad
An Iranian-born veterinarian who has been protesting against the Iranian regime for years.
Shanaz
An Iranian American woman who came to the U.S. in 1987 and supports the U.S. military action against Iran.
Payam Diba
An Iranian American whose family owns a Persian market and restaurant in the Denver area. He is more cautious about the U.S. military involvement in the region.
What they’re saying
“They've been evil to our people for 47 years. They've done nothing good for Iran.”
— Parisa Kariminejad, Veterinarian (CBS News Colorado)
“I'm so happy that finally President Trump decided to attack Iran.”
— Shanaz (CBS News Colorado)
“It's amazing that it's happening and hopefully it continues. You know this is the most progress toward change we've seen, probably ever.”
— Payam Diba, Persian Market and Restaurant Owner (CBS News Colorado)
What’s next
It remains to be seen how the death of Ayatollah Khamenei will impact the political situation in Iran and the ongoing tensions with the United States. Further developments and reactions from the Iranian American community in Colorado will be closely watched.
The takeaway
The diverse perspectives within the Iranian American community in Colorado highlight the complex and nuanced views surrounding the U.S. military action against Iran. While some see it as a long-awaited opportunity for change, others are concerned about the potential for further violence and instability.
