Large crowds of people have gathered at the Martyrs’ Cemetery of Kerman as ceremonies marking Resistance Week and the sixth martyrdom anniversary of Lt. Gen. Qassem Soleimani officially began.

Why it matters

The annual commemoration reflects the enduring domestic and international significance of Martyr Soleimani, the late commander of the IRGC Quds Force, and highlights Iran’s continued emphasis on the discourse of Resistance.

The big picture

  • Resistance Week ceremonies in Kerman are underway from January 1 to January 7.
  • The programs are divided into two main parts:
  • Popular mawkibs (service stations for pilgrims) run by the public
  • Official religious and ceremonial events across the province

State of play

January 1–3, 2026: Popular mawkibs have been set up along routes leading to the Martyrs’ Cemetery of Kerman to serve pilgrims visiting the grave of Martyr Soleimani.

January 4–7, 2026: Various religious and cultural ceremonies of Resistance Week will be held in different cities across Kerman Province.

Zoom in

On the first day of Resistance Week, the Martyrs’ Cemetery of Kerman witnessed the arrival of large numbers of people from across Iran and worldwide, who traveled to pay tribute to the late IRGC commander.  

What’s happening

As the sixth anniversary of his martyrdom approaches, the cemetery has once again become a focal point for supporters of the Resistance Axis and supporters of Martyr Lt. Gen. Soleimani, the Late commander of the IRGC Quds Force.

Go deeper

The official programs marking the anniversary began on Thursday afternoon, January 1, with the participation of people worldwide who arrived in Kerman to attend the commemorations.

Bottom line

With all logistical and service capacities mobilized, Kerman Province has prepared to host thousands of pilgrims during what officials describe as one of Iran’s most significant national commemorative events.

 

Hossein Vaez - A.Akbari