On the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution, Iran’s president called for an end to the Israeli bombing of Gaza, while thousands of Iranians marched in anti-Israel rallies across the country.
The 45th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran coincided with the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza in the wider Middle East.
On Sunday, many Iranians took part in marches across the country, displaying flags, balloons and banners with religious and revolutionary messages.
Iranian flags, slogans and signs with the usual “Death to America” and “Death to Israel” messages were seen in Tehran, where some also set fire to US and Israeli flags, a frequent practice at pro-government rallies.
The capital’s Azadi Square was the main destination of the processions that began from different locations. State TV broadcasted images of crowds in various cities and towns and claimed that “millions joined the rallies” nationwide.
The military showcased some of its missiles, such as the Qassem Soleimani and Sejjil ballistic missiles, the Simorgh satellite carrier and drones at the square where people also took pictures with them.
A paratrooper holding a Palestinian flag descended from a plane during the festivities.
Several top Iranian officials, including President Ebrahim Raisi, who is known for his hard-line stance, were present at the celebrations in Tehran.
He spoke to the crowds at Azadi Square and urged the United Nations — in a speech aired by state TV — to remove “the Zionist regime” while the crowds shouted: “Death to Israel”. Raisi also demanded “The bombing of Gaza must end immediately.”
