Sahar Emami, a popular Iranian state TV presenter, has become a powerful symbol of strength and courage in Iran. Her calm broadcast during a live Israeli airstrike on the state television headquarters in Tehran has earned her praise across the country.
The attack occurred on Monday as Emami hosted a live show. Loud explosions echoed while she kept speaking firmly to the audience.
“What you can see is the flagrant aggression of the Zionist regime against the Islamic Republic of Iran and its broadcaster,” she said with a steady voice. “What you just heard was the sound of an aggressor against the motherland, the sound of an aggressor against truth.”
As the smoke and dust filled the studio and another explosion shook the building, Emami briefly left the camera’s view. The live transmission continued for a few seconds before it suddenly went off air. Within minutes, she returned and resumed the broadcast as if the attack had never occurred.
Emami has been with Iranian state television for over 15 years. She is known for her tough interviews with senior government officials and her clear voice during national broadcasts. Reports say she is in her forties and is widely recognized by viewers across Iran.
TV Station Damaged, Emami Honoured for Bravery
The TV building, located in Tehran and known for its glass-fronted structure, was damaged in the assault. A fire broke out and several offices and studios were destroyed. State media confirmed that three people were killed.
Images of the damaged rooms and burnt equipment circulated on official news channels after the strike.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned Israel’s action, calling it “an act of cowardice” and saying it showed Israeli “desperation.”
Iran’s conservative daily Farhikhtegan praised Emami’s strength, saying: “Female journalist’s resistance until the last moment sends a clear message.” The hardline paper Kayhan also praised her, noting that her calm reaction had “surprised friends and foes.”
In response, the Iranian government put up a banner in Tehran’s central Vali-Asr Square. The banner featured Emami’s image beside a famous verse by the Persian poet Ferdowsi, which celebrates women’s bravery in the face of war.
The state TV station has been airing clips of Emami’s broadcast during the attack repeatedly since the incident. Authorities hailed her as a national heroine.
At the same time, they mocked a rival journalist from the UK-based Iran International TV. That journalist was seen running for shelter in Israel during a live segment following alerts of Iranian missiles.
Khamenei Vows No Mercy, Iran Launches Hypersonic Missiles
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei spoke on Wednesday, warning of strong retaliation. “We must give a strong response to the terrorist Zionist regime. We will show the Zionists no mercy,” he posted on X.
His statement came just hours after former US President Donald Trump called for Iran’s “unconditional surrender.” Trump also claimed the US could assassinate Khamenei easily if it wanted to.
In the past week, Israel carried out heavy bombing campaigns across Iran. The strikes targeted military bases, nuclear facilities, and some residential zones. In response, Iran has launched several drones and missiles into Israeli territory. On Wednesday morning, Iran said it had fired hypersonic missiles for the first time in this growing conflict.
The ongoing escalation has raised global fears of a wider war between the two countries, with many calling for restraint.
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