A video featuring an Iranian woman lighting a cigarette from a burning image of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has gone viral, transforming her into a powerful symbol of resistance against the Iranian regime’s violent crackdown on dissent. This act of defiance, which occurred on January 7, 2024, just before the Iranian government imposed a near-total internet blackout, has resonated globally, igniting protests and solidarity movements across various countries.
The woman, who identifies as an Iranian refugee, captured the moment on video, showcasing her bold act of setting fire to a photograph of the Supreme Leader. She then lit her cigarette from the flames, embodying a rebellion against the oppressive laws of the Islamic Republic. Her defiance is particularly striking given the regime’s stringent rules regarding women’s dress and public behavior, including a ban on smoking for women.
Symbol of Resistance
The 34-second clip quickly spread across social media platforms, from X to Instagram, illustrating a personal act of autonomy that has inspired many. In the footage, she appears without a hijab, reflecting the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Iran, which has been highlighted by the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests that began in 2021. Her actions sparked a wave of similar demonstrations, with individuals in cities such as Berlin, Zurich, and Toronto mimicking her gesture, lighting cigarettes from images of Khamenei.
The Iranian state has attempted to control the narrative surrounding the protests, framing them as externally orchestrated attacks aimed at destabilizing the regime. In contrast, protesters argue that their actions are fueled by dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy and social issues. Reports indicate that over 4,000 people have died in the current unrest, a staggering figure that underscores the severity of the situation.
The Woman Behind the Act
The identity of the woman, who goes by the screen name Morticia Addams on social media, has become a topic of discussion. In interviews with various outlets, she described her harrowing journey from Iran to Canada. She shared that she was first arrested at the age of 17 during the protests of 2019, which erupted following the U.S. withdrawal from the nuclear deal. Her experiences include physical abuse while in custody and ongoing threats to her safety.
Now living in Toronto, she has refugee status and continues to advocate for change in Iran. In her own words, “I just wanted to tell my friends that my heart, my soul was with them.” Despite the risks associated with her activism, she remains committed to shedding light on the plight of those still facing oppression in Iran, particularly her family, who she fears may be in danger due to her outspoken stance.
As the situation in Iran unfolds, the image of the woman lighting her cigarette has become emblematic of the struggle against tyranny. This powerful act of defiance not only highlights the personal sacrifices made by individuals like her but also underscores the broader fight for freedom and justice in Iran. The global response to her actions demonstrates the potential of social media to amplify voices that challenge oppressive regimes, making her a significant figure in the ongoing narrative of resistance against the Iranian government.
