Wednesday, 11/02/2026   
   Beirut 11:27

A Sea of Flags: Iran Celebrates 47th Islamic Revolution Anniversary

Millions took to the streets across Iran for Islamic Revolution anniversary marches. People from all walks of life have participated in nationwide rallies marking the 47th anniversary of Iran’s Islamic Revolution.

Crowds began gathering on Wednesday morning along designated routes in Tehran and more than a thousand other cities and towns, according to official announcements. Participants assembled from 9:30 a.m. local time and proceeded toward central gathering points, including Tehran’s Azadi Square.

Organizers state that more than 1,400 locations nationwide are hosting marches. Official figures report that about 7,200 domestic journalists and nearly 200 foreign media representatives are covering the events to document public participation and related ceremonies.

On Tuesday night, people across the country chanted “Allahu Akbar” at 9:00 p.m. to commemorate the Revolution’s victory. In many cities, especially Tehran, spontaneous crowds carrying Iranian flags gathered in public squares.

In the days leading up to the rallies, government officials and institutions issued statements encouraging strong attendance. Authorities described participation as a symbol of national unity and resilience amid external pressures. Observers note the events carry political and cultural messaging aimed at demonstrating solidarity and public presence in national life.

Foreign-backed armed rioters and terrorists hijacked peaceful protests over economic grievances on January 8th and 9th, causing widespread destruction of shops, government institutions, and public service facilities, and killing or injuring thousands, including civilians and security forces.

Iranian authorities confirmed that American and Israeli spy agencies were directly involved, providing funding, training, and media support to the perpetrators. According to a statement last month by Iran’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, a total of 3,117 people lost their lives during the riots, including 2,427 innocent civilians and security personnel.

On Monday, the Leader of the Islamic Revolution Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei called on the Iranian nation to demonstrate its will and steadfastness on the anniversary, saying such unity would frustrate the country’s enemies.

The rallies commemorate the Iranian people’s overthrow of the Pahlavi dictatorship, which had the full backing of the United States, in the winter of 1979. Imam Khomeini returned from exile on February 1, 1979, receiving an enormous public welcome week after the shah’s departure in mid-January.

The downfall of the Pahlavi regime was sealed on February 11, 1979, when the military declared neutrality and sided with the Revolution.

On the sidelines of the march, several burned and damaged vehicles destroyed during the recent foreign-backed riots were displayed. Officials said they had been set on fire and vandalized by rioters.

Following an insult to the Holy Quran during the January terrorist incidents by operatives trained by Mossad, some marchers held copies of the Quran and chanted, “Truth does not burn,” in condemnation.

Several cruise missiles — including Soumar, Noor, and Qadir — as well as ballistic missiles such as Zolfaghar, Haj Qassem, and Emad, were exhibited in Azadi Square. In addition, wreckage of several Israeli drones said to have been shot down was shown to participants.

President Masoud Pezeshkian also attended the gathering in Tehran and is scheduled to deliver a speech to the participants within the next few hours.

Source: Press tv