Iran: Worshippers in Tehran rally after Friday prayers
In the Iranian capital, worshippers gathered near mosques before joining rallies that mixed religious observance with political messages. Some participants said they came to show support for the Islamic Republic during a week of heavy fighting. Airstrikes have repeatedly hit sites in Tehran, while Iranian officials say the country has launched ballistic missiles toward Israel in response. Among the crowd was Hassan Fathollahi, who attended prayers with his children.
Thousands of worshippers gathered in Tehran on Friday, taking part in rallies following weekly prayers as tensions continue to rise amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The demonstrations took place shortly after Friday prayers in mosques across the Iranian capital. Large crowds of worshippers moved into the streets carrying national flags and chanting slogans expressing support for the Iranian government and its military forces.
Participants said the rally was meant to show unity and solidarity with the country’s leadership during what they described as a critical moment for Iran. Many also voiced opposition to Israel and the United States, blaming both countries for the escalation of hostilities in the region.
One worshipper, identified as Hassan Fathollahi, attended the gathering with members of his family. He said Iranians were ready to stand behind their country despite the dangers posed by the ongoing conflict.
The rally comes as fighting between Iran and Israel has entered its seventh consecutive day, with both sides carrying out strikes. Israeli attacks have reportedly targeted locations in Tehran, while Iran has responded with missile launches toward Israeli territory.
Reports also indicate that Israeli strikes have extended beyond Iran, with explosions reported in Beirut, raising fears that the conflict could spread further across the region.
Meanwhile, officials in the United States have warned that the American military campaign targeting Iranian positions could intensify in the coming days, increasing concerns about a broader regional confrontation.
The rallies in Tehran therefore reflect a mixture of religious observance and political mobilization, as supporters of the Iranian government publicly demonstrate their backing amid a rapidly escalating conflict in the Middle East.
