Large crowds of people across the country gathered on Monday evening to pledge allegiance to the new Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei (may God preserve him), while condemning the ongoing U.S.-Israeli attacks on the country.

Why it matters:

The demonstrations reflect nationwide support for Iran’s new leadership at a time of heightened tensions following military aggression by the U.S. and the Israeli regime.

The big picture:

Massive gatherings were held in Tehran and major cities across the country.

Participants reaffirmed loyalty to the new Leader of the Islamic Revolution and unity in the face of foreign aggression.

Protesters also voiced condemnation of the continued U.S.-Israeli attacks against Iran.

Key points:

In Tehran, large crowds gathered in Enghelab Square to pledge allegiance to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei.

Demonstrators reached the square through major routes, including Kargar Street and Azadi Street, filling much of the area, particularly the northern section.

Flags of the Islamic Republic of Iran and images of the martyred Leader and the new Leader of the Islamic Revolution were prominently displayed.

Participants included a broad cross-section of society, from youth and students to elderly citizens, as well as women and men from different social groups.

Go deeper:

The nationwide rallies come amid heightened regional tensions sparked by the U.S.-Israeli war of aggression against Iran.

The escalation began on February 28, when coordinated attacks targeted Iran and culminated in the assassination of the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, in an attack on Tehran.

Iranian officials and citizens have pledged unity and resistance in response to the aggression and the assassination.

Mojtaba Darabi - Hossein Vaez