Why it matters:
The remarks highlight the political and symbolic role of traditional economic sectors in Iran’s official narrative, linking market actors to broader themes of resistance, national unity, and support for the Islamic Republic.
Driving the news:
The comments were delivered at the National Congress of the Martyrs of Guilds, Bazaar and Economic Activists, held at Tehran’s International Fairground with the participation of Bazaar (market) martyrs’ families. The event aimed to revisit the historical role of guilds and the Bazaar in the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq war, alongside cultural and artistic programs depicting their involvement in turning points of Iranian contemporary history.
What he's saying:
Brigadier General Gholam-Reza Soleimani: “The Bazaar stood at the most correct position during the recent unrest, alongside the Iranian nation that achieved this greatness.”
“Enemies launched conspiracies and sought to tear our country apart.”
“In the face of separatism, the Bazaar stood firm.”
“Terrorists martyred many members of the Bazaar community, yet the Bazaar resisted.”
At the event:
Officials at the event framed the Bazaar as a longstanding social institution aligned with revolutionary and wartime narratives, emphasizing its perceived role in mobilization, social support, and participation in political and military developments across different periods of Iran’s modern history.
Key points:
- Thirty families of martyrs from guild communities were honored during the ceremony.
- Twenty-nine books in children’s literature, novels, and narrative works were unveiled.
- A photo book documenting the role of guilds in the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq war was introduced.
- A website “Aberou-ye Bazaar” (Reputation of Bazaar) was announced to present the lives and roles of martyrs from guild communities online.
Go deeper:
Iranians in Nationwide Rallies Condemn Terrorist Attacks, Widespread Vandalism
M.Majdi - seyed mohammad kazemi
