Mass rallies held across Iran
Crowds mark Imam Reza birth anniversary and show unity
Thousands rallied across Iran to mark the birth anniversary of Imam Reza, with large crowds in Tehran marching from Imam Hossein Square to Azadi Square and parallel gatherings in other cities to reaffirm loyalty to Leader Sayyed Mojtaba Khamenei and the ideals of the Islamic Revolution. Participants carried national flags, portraits of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and his successor, and placards supporting the armed forces and negotiating team, while chanting slogans calling on the United States and Israel to leave the region.
Officials including Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani and former presidential chief of staff Gholam‑Hossein Esmaeili joined the demonstrations, framing the turnout as proof of national unity in the face of sanctions, blockade and foreign aggression. Organizers and speakers said the rallies underscored popular cohesion despite political differences and bolstered morale after the onset of hostilities on February 28, describing the mobilizations as sustained public backing for the Islamic establishment and security forces.
Authorities reiterated that Iran can withstand maritime blockades by using alternative trade routes, and protesters conveyed support for measures taken in response to the confrontation. The event, traditionally observed nationwide, took on heightened symbolic weight this year amid the conflict and recent high‑profile casualties, with organizers presenting the mass turnout as both a religious commemoration and a political demonstration of resolve.
