Why it matters:
These rallies demonstrate a unified national response within Iran to perceived aggression from Israel, reinforcing anti-Western sentiment and escalating regional tensions. The scale of the demonstrations across multiple cities underscores the deeply-rooted emotional connection Iranians feel towards the Palestinian cause and a strong sense of national pride.
What he's saying:
Iranian people are showing their public support to display an image of national unity and resolve, reaffirming their commitment to protecting sovereignty and supporting regional allies. The recurring chant "If the Leader gives the order, I will sacrifice my life for him" is a key expression of this.
What they're saying:
Demonstrators across Iran are expressing outrage over civilian casualties resulting from Israeli strikes and rallying behind the Iranian armed forces' actions. Slogans such as “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” were prominent, emphasizing a refusal to accept imposed peace deals.
Key points:
- Demonstrations occurred immediately after Friday prayers in major cities throughout Iran, including Tehran, Ahvaz, Mashhad, Bojnurd, and Qom.
- Participants carried Iranian flags and banners denouncing Israel and the United States.Burning of Israeli flags and portraits of Israeli officials were reported in several locations.
- Common slogans included “Death to America”, “Death to Israel,” "No compromise, no surrender – fight against Zionists," and "Our right to defend ourselves is legitimate.”
- A recurring chant across multiple cities was “Israel is rootless, Iran won't become Gaza," reflecting concerns about replicating the conditions in Gaza within Iran.
City-Specific Reports:
Large crowds gathered in Ahvaz, chanting slogans condemning the attacks and expressing support for Palestinian rights. Reports indicate a particularly strong focus on the impact of the strikes on civilian populations.
Demonstrations in Mashhad saw protestors holding banners calling for a stronger response to Israeli aggression. Religious leaders used the opportunity to address the crowds, emphasizing the need for unity.
Protestors in Bojnord, a city in North Khorasan Province, echoed the nationwide sentiments, condemning Israel and the United States. Local media highlighted the participation of students and members of the clergy.
Qom, a major religious center, witnessed a substantial turnout with protestors focused heavily on the religious obligations to support the Palestinian people and defend against oppression. Slogans targeting the “child-killing nature” of Israeli regime were prevalent.
Go deeper:
The scale and breadth of these demonstrations suggest that any lessening of Iran’s support for its stated positions would likely face significant domestic opposition. The international community’s response to this growing regional instability will be crucial in preventing further conflict.
Last Friday, the Israeli regime, in a blatant violation of international laws and Iran’s national sovereignty, targeted areas in Tehran and some other cities in a military attack. During this terrorist attack, several military commanders, scientists, and civilian citizens were martyred.
In response, Iran’s military forces launched Operation True Promise-3 against the regime.
Mojtaba Darabi
