Iranian state TV presenter Sahar Emami has become a national symbol of resistance after continuing a live broadcast during an Israeli attack on the state broadcaster’s headquarters in Tehran.
Facing the camera with a raised finger and defiant tone, Emami called out the “flagrant aggression of the Zionist regime” as explosions rocked the studio on Monday. Moments later, another blast interrupted her, forcing her to flee the set as smoke and dust filled the room. The dramatic footage was broadcast live before the transmission was cut.
Despite the chaos, Emami returned to the screen just minutes later to resume the broadcast, a move that has since drawn widespread praise from state media and officials.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack, which reportedly killed three people, calling it a sign of Israel’s “cowardice and desperation.” Conservative outlets hailed Emami’s composure, with headlines describing her as a "lioness" and "symbol of resistance." A banner honoring her bravery was also displayed in Tehran’s Vali-Asr Square.
The broadcaster's building suffered significant damage, with images of destroyed studios circulating on local media. Meanwhile, state TV aired Emami’s footage repeatedly and mocked a foreign-based journalist who took shelter during Iranian missile strikes in Israel.
Emami, known for her firm interviews with top officials, has been a fixture on Iranian state TV for over 15 years.
Facing the camera with a raised finger and defiant tone, Emami called out the “flagrant aggression of the Zionist regime” as explosions rocked the studio on Monday. Moments later, another blast interrupted her, forcing her to flee the set as smoke and dust filled the room. The dramatic footage was broadcast live before the transmission was cut.
Despite the chaos, Emami returned to the screen just minutes later to resume the broadcast, a move that has since drawn widespread praise from state media and officials.
Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the attack, which reportedly killed three people, calling it a sign of Israel’s “cowardice and desperation.” Conservative outlets hailed Emami’s composure, with headlines describing her as a "lioness" and "symbol of resistance." A banner honoring her bravery was also displayed in Tehran’s Vali-Asr Square.
The broadcaster's building suffered significant damage, with images of destroyed studios circulating on local media. Meanwhile, state TV aired Emami’s footage repeatedly and mocked a foreign-based journalist who took shelter during Iranian missile strikes in Israel.
Emami, known for her firm interviews with top officials, has been a fixture on Iranian state TV for over 15 years.