Massive Anti-Trump Rally in Iran

Hundreds of thousands of Iranians came together in Tehran Friday to recognize the anniversary of the nation’s 1979 Islamic Revolution. 

Attendees swore allegiance to clerical leaders and spoke out against President Donald Trump, rejecting his threats against the Islamic Republic. 

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and other top figures urged people to attend Friday’s event to “show their unbreakable ties with the Supreme Leader and the Islamic Republic.” According to Rouhani, millions of people turned out to attend rallies throughout the nation. “This turnout of people is a strong response to false remarks by the new leaders of America,” he said.  

This surge of anti-Trump sentiment comes after the US president imposed new sanctions on Iran and announced he was putting the Middle Eastern nation “on notice” following its ballistic missile test on January 29th. 

The Trump Administration is also considering whether to label Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps a “terrorist organization.” Such a decision would have serious political, economic, and geopolitical ramifications. 

Rouhani delievered a speech to the crowds in Tehran’s Azadi (Freedom) Square, referring to “inexperienced figures” in America who are “threatening” Iran. “They should know the language of threats has never worked with Iran. We are not seeking tension but we are united before bullying and any threat.” 

Rouhani’s speech, in which he highlighted the achievements of his administration, called for national unity, and praised the Obama-era nuclear deal, is likely related to his upcoming bid for re-election.

The crowd, which included hundreds of policeman and military personnel, touted “Death to America” signs and anti-Trump propaganda as they marched towards Azadi Square. 

Protestors stomped on images of Trump and carried banners reading: “Thanks Mr. Trump for showing the real face of America.” Others carried “Death to the Devil Triangle” banners portraying Trump alongside British Prime Minister Theresa May and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

In the meantime, Iran insists it has no plans to halt its missile program. The effort will continue  “at any cost,” said one of Ayatollah Khamenei’s advisers.  

Friday’s rally is an annual event held to celebrate the uprising in 1979 when followers of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini overthrew US-backed Shah Reza Pahlavi. The event, intended to show support for Iran’s clerical regime and its values, regularly draws thousands of supporters. 

Editor’s note: We want to remind our readers that Iran is not a friendly place.