By Mohammed Bello Doka
Iran observed the 45th anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution amidst a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly fueled by Israel's ongoing conflict with Gaza. The streets of major Iranian cities were transformed into seas of red, green, and white as thousands of citizens, adorned with flags, balloons, and banners, fervently celebrated the historic occasion on Sunday.
In Tehran, the capital, throngs of demonstrators flooded the thoroughfares, their voices echoing with patriotic chants and religious slogans. Alongside the familiar refrains of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel," impassioned calls for solidarity with the oppressed Palestinians reverberated through the city streets. Amidst the fervor, some demonstrators ignited US and Israeli flags, a symbolic gesture emblematic of Iran's staunch opposition to perceived Western imperialism and its unwavering support for Palestine.
Processions, originating from various districts, gradually coalesced at Azadi Square, the epicenter of the festivities. State television broadcasts captured the magnitude of the gatherings, reporting widespread participation that purportedly spanned across the nation, with millions purportedly joining in the commemorative rallies.
The military, a stalwart symbol of Iran's revolutionary zeal, proudly showcased an impressive array of weaponry, including the formidable Qassem Soleimani and Sejjil ballistic missiles, the cutting-edge Simorgh satellite carrier, and a fleet of drones. As spectators marveled at the technological prowess on display, many seized the opportunity to capture selfies with the imposing military hardware.
Adding a theatrical flourish to the proceedings, a lone paratrooper descended from the heavens, his silhouette framed against the azure sky as he unfurled a Palestinian flag, eliciting thunderous applause and cheers from the assembled crowd. The gesture served as a poignant reminder of Iran's unwavering solidarity with the Palestinian cause amidst the ongoing strife in Gaza.
Among the dignitaries present at the commemoration was President Ebrahim Raisi, a stalwart figure within Iran's hard-line establishment. Addressing the throngs gathered at Azadi Square, Raisi delivered a stirring speech broadcast nationwide, in which he called upon the United Nations to expel what he termed "the Zionist regime." His impassioned plea was met with resounding chants of "Death to Israel" from the fervent audience. Additionally, Raisi issued a fervent appeal for an immediate cessation of the bombing campaign in Gaza, underscoring Iran's commitment to peace and stability in the region.
As the day drew to a close, the streets of Tehran remained alive with the echoes of celebration, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Iran's Islamic revolution and its continued role as a regional powerhouse amidst a turbulent geopolitical landscape.
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