But, they undoubtedly were hoping for regime change--something this is highly unlikely to happen, given there was clearly a succession plan. The latter went down many levels within the theocracy and hardliners--perhaps as bad or even worse than Khamenei are already moving toward assuming the lead Ayatollah position. The CIA, as bad as they have been on Iran in past decades--warned that this would happen.

But, those living under Khamenei and Khomeini before him, can only hope this would be a good thing. I get it. I, sadly, don't believe it will have the end result they hope for.