TEHRAN, Iran — Iranians took to the streets on Saturday to commemorate the anniversary of the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover in Tehran. As the Israel-Hamas conflict entered its fourth week, thousands of Iranians expressed their anger towards the United States’ support for Israel’s military strikes in the Gaza Strip. The state-sanctioned event saw participants unify in chanting slogans condemning America and Israel while calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
The Rally:
Amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, protesters gathered outside the former U.S. Embassy in Tehran. Demonstrators went as far as burning American and Israeli flags, symbolizing their vehement opposition to the perceived alliance between the two nations. Pictures of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Joe Biden were trampled upon, further emphasizing the anger towards the perceived power of these leaders. Banners bearing the words “We trample America under our feet” showed the intensity of the sentiment towards the United States.
Voices of Dissent:
At the rally, Mohammed Bagher Qalibaf, Iran’s Parliament speaker, addressed the crowds and criticized the U.S. for its support of Israel. He condemned the ongoing violence in Gaza and accused the United States of being a principal culprit responsible for the crimes committed against Palestinians. Qalibaf claimed that the recent attack by Hamas has caused significant damage to Israel’s intelligence and security.
The Statement:
After the rally, a statement was released on behalf of the protesters, urging an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Additionally, the United States, Britain, and France were warned of potential escalation of the crisis in the region. The statement concluded by reiterating Iran’s commitment to stand by Palestine until achieving what was described as the “final victory.”
National Reflection:
The annual rally has long served as a platform for Iranians to express their anti-Western sentiments. It provides an opportunity for Iranians to unite and communicate their discontent with the perceived support the United States provides to Israel. Similar demonstrations were witnessed in other cities and towns across Iran, displaying the strong national sentiment against Israel’s actions and U.S. involvement.
Supreme Leader’s Statements:
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Wednesday, criticized the United States for its unwavering support of Israel. He argued that Israel’s power would be diminished without American assistance and called for an immediate end to the Israel-Hamas conflict. Khamenei further urged Muslim-majority nations to sever their economic ties with Israel, positioning Iran as a staunch supporter of various militant groups that oppose Israeli interests.
The recent rally in Tehran commemorating the 1979 U.S. Embassy takeover provided Iranians an opportunity to voice their opposition towards the United States’ backing of Israel in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The gathering displayed a unified front against American and Israeli actions, with participants calling for a ceasefire and a larger regional response to the crisis. As tensions continue to escalate, Iran maintains its position as a prominent supporter of various anti-Israeli militant groups in the region.
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