“On 22 Bahman this year, you accomplished a great deed; you brought honor to Iran, ” Ayatollah Khamenei declared in a televised address on Thursday.
“As always, by supporting the Islamic Republic you increased its strength, and the enemies who, in their statements and plans, sought the surrender of the Iranian nation became disappointed,” he continued.
The Leader emphasized that the reward for this historic public mobilization is greater dignity, enhanced authority, and more complete independence for Iran, adding, “Let us all strive to preserve this connection and national cohesion, which is very valuable and precious.”
Ayatollah Khamenei commended the people’s millions-strong presence in the streets and their unified slogans, which he said showcased their identity and resolve to enemies.
“I thank the entire Iranian nation and extend my abundant greetings to each and every person who participated in this grand, multimillion-strong gathering across the country,” he stated.
Tens of millions of Iranians took to the streets nationwide on Wednesday (February 11), marking the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution with one of the largest demonstrations in recent years.
From Tehran to over 1,400 cities, towns, and villages, vast crowds gathered despite forecasts of rain and snow. The rallies followed months of military confrontation, unrest, and intensified foreign pressure.
The 2026 anniversary occurred in the aftermath a 12-day imposed war in June 2025, during which Israeli regime, backed by the United States, launched an aggression against Iranian people. The war ended with the aggressors’ desperate pleas for cessation, followed by attempts to maintain a “no war, no peace” environment. This strategy aimed to hinder Iran’s progress through sanctions, economic pressure, and cognitive warfare.
Tensions escalated further in January 2026, as armed riots involving foreign-backed agents linked to Israeli regime’s Mossad and the US CIA carried out acts of terrorism.