The major public event titled “Iran; Zulfiqar of Ali” was held simultaneously in Tehran and across the country, originally meant to honor a significant Shia religious holiday. However, it transformed into a powerful demonstration of anger and resistance in response to recent Israeli missile attacks on Iranian soil, which resulted in the deaths of numerous senior military figures and pushed the region closer to full-scale war.
Participants expressed their unwavering loyalty to Iran and its leadership. One attendee told the Tehran Times, “We are followers of the Commander of the Faithful (Imam Ali). We stand with our country through all challenges.” The crowd repeatedly chanted slogans such as “Death to Israel! Death to Netanyahu!” Many condemned Israel’s attacks and supported Iran’s missile retaliation against Tel Aviv.
Thousands held placards featuring the image of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, alongside messages like “Hard Revenge is Near” and “Tel Aviv Must Burn.” Samira Farhadi, a university lecturer attending with her teenage sons, shared, “We came to pray and grieve, but we must cry out for justice. Israel has killed our commanders and sons — they will not go unpunished.”
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Other attendees emphasized the need to resist foreign aggression. One declared, “We are here to silence America and Israel so they never dare to threaten our land again. Israel must be wiped off the map.” Meanwhile, young men in black pounded drums in rhythm with chants, calling for a strong military response, stating, “It’s not just revenge; it’s defense.”
The event also included acts of community solidarity, with makeshift stalls distributing food and drinks. Participants shared emotional reflections, mourning the loss of commanders and military personnel, while acknowledging that Iran must respond to defend its homeland.
While the overall mood was one of defiance and readiness for retaliation, some voices called for caution. A retired civil servant urged restraint, recalling the hardships of past wars. Others expressed concern for the future, fearing the impact of a broader conflict on their children’s safety and peace of mind.
Local bakeries reported record sales as residents prepared for uncertain times, reminiscent of the 1980s war era. Families reaffirmed their support for Iran’s military efforts and called on the international community to recognize Iran’s right to defend itself against Israeli aggression.
Many emphasized their loyalty to Iran’s Supreme Leader and readiness to stand firm in the face of threats. The gathering’s message was clear: Iran is prepared, unafraid, and committed to justice and defense against Zionist aggression.
