Tehran (Monitoring Desk/IRNA) Millions of Iranians have poured into the streets across the country to mark International Quds Day, holding massive rallies in solidarity with the Palestinian people while condemning the ongoing military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel against Iran.
The annual event, observed on the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan, is one of the largest political and religious mobilizations in Iran.
This year’s demonstrations carried a particularly intense atmosphere, as they took place during a period of escalating military confrontation between Iran and the US-Israeli alliance.
Across major cities, including Tehran, crowds of men, women, students, and families gathered in large numbers carrying Iranian and Palestinian flags. Participants chanted slogans in support of Palestine and against what they described as American and Israeli aggression in the region.
The rallies also reflected the public’s support for the newly elected Leader of the Iran, Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei. Many demonstrators carried his portraits, signaling loyalty to his leadership and commitment to continuing the revolutionary principles laid down by the late founder of the Islamic Republic, Imam Ruhollah Khomeini.
In Tehran, one of the largest gatherings took place at Enqelab Square, where thousands assembled despite the tense security environment.
During the rally, explosions were reportedly heard in the distance amid ongoing US and Israeli airstrikes targeting various locations across Iran.
In response, crowds chanted “God is Great,” displaying defiance and unity in the face of the attacks.
According to Iranian reports, the ongoing strikes have lasted for more than two weeks and have caused significant casualties.
More than 1,300 people have reportedly been killed and over 10,000 injured, with many of the victims including women, children, and students.
Participants in the rallies described the demonstrations as a message of resilience and solidarity. Many pledged continued support for Palestine and reaffirmed their commitment to the ideals promoted by Imam Khomeini when he first established International Quds Day in 1979.
This year’s rallies also saw groups of participants signing petitions and gathering in circles to publicly declare their loyalty to Ayatollah Seyyed Mojtaba Khamenei.
The symbolic gestures reflected a broader show of unity during a time of war and national crisis.
Observers say the scale of the demonstrations highlights the strong political and emotional significance that Quds Day continues to hold within Iran and across parts of the Muslim world.
Even under the shadow of airstrikes and rising regional tensions, the rallies demonstrated that the issue of Palestine remains central to the country’s political identity and public discourse.
As the conflict between Iran and the US-Israeli alliance continues to escalate, the massive turnout on Quds Day has sent a powerful message of resistance, solidarity, and national unity from the streets of Iran to the wider world.