COURAGE UNDER THE BOMBS

MASS DEMONSTRATIONS ACROSS IRAN

DEFY AIRSTRIKES DURING INTERNATIONAL QUDS DAY

On March 13, 2026, millions across Iran marked International Quds Day, the main focus of which is to express solidarity with Palestinians and opposition to Israeli policies. The demonstrations took place as conflict escalated between Iran and a U.S.–Israeli military campaign that began in late February. Despite airstrikes and rising tensions, large crowds gathered in cities such as Tehran, carrying Iranian and Palestinian flags and chanting slogans condemning the United States and Israel.

The rallies—held on the last Friday of Ramadan—remain central to Iran’s political calendar. This year’s demonstrations unfolded under extraordinary circumstances. The war has inflicted significant casualties and damage across the region. Iranian leaders cast the turnout as a sign of national unity and defiance amid the conflict. Senior officials attended several marches. Their presence signaled confidence and encouraged citizens to remain resilient during ongoing attacks.

Reports from Tehran also described explosions and strikes near demonstration sites. These incidents displayed the intensity of the conflict even as people gathered for the event. Some incidents reportedly resulted in casualties among participants. This showed the risks faced by civilians during the ongoing hostilities.

International Quds Day was established in 1979 by Iran’s first supreme leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. The day is meant to show global solidarity with Palestinians. While rallies take place in many countries each year, those inside Iran are typically the largest and most politically significant. In 2026, the marches became not only a symbol of support for Palestine but also a public display of resistance. This happened during one of the most serious military confrontations in Iran’s recent history.

Protest Video Clip (Press TV X, 3-13-26)

Isfahan Protest Video Clip (Mohammad Ali Shabani X, 3-13-26)

Millions of Iranians rally on International Quds Day amid US-Israeli strikes (Press TV, 3-13-26)

Thousands march worldwide in solidarity with Palestine, Iran on al-Quds Day (Al Jazeera, 3-13-26)