The state television of Iran has confirmed the dismissal of the director of a regional channel following a controversial incident involving journalist Musab Rasoulizad. While covering the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in the Sistan-Balouchistan province, Rasoulizad inadvertently chanted an anti-Supreme Leader slogan, stating 'Death to Khamenei', instead of the more standard 'Death to America' or 'Death to Israel'. This slip occurred as he was relaying the crowd's cheers, which typically reflect the government's stance.

The reaction to Rasoulizad's unintentional remark highlights the sensitive atmosphere surrounding free speech in Iran, especially regarding critiques of the Supreme Leader. The incident underscores the precarious position of Iranian journalists, who must navigate a complex landscape of governmental censorship and societal pressures. Following the mistake, Rasoulizad characterized his statement as a 'lapsus', aiming to downplay the severity of the utterance, likely in light of potential repercussions.

This event marks a significant moment in Iranian media and political discourse, shedding light on the quick disciplinary actions taken by state authorities in response to any perceived dissent. The dismissal not only reflects the regime's intolerance for opposing views but also raises questions about journalistic freedom and the extent to which media professionals in Iran can express opinions or reflect the sentiments of the public without facing severe punitive measures.