Iranians marked Chaharshanbe Suri-the ancient fire-jumping festival preceding Nowruz-despite government bans and a tense regional backdrop. Authorities declared fireworks illegal and issued public warnings ahead of the March 17 festivities.
Security forces raided residential areas in Tehran’s Chitgar neighborhood, with videos showing convoys entering apartment complexes and reports of gunfire. A nationwide internet blackout has obscured the full scale of celebrations and crackdowns.
Exiled royal Reza Pahlavi urged citizens to “ignite the fire of peace” in streets nationwide and called on U.S. and Israeli leaders to protect civilians. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded directly: “Go to the squares, celebrate, we are watching over you from above.”
Government loyalists were mobilized by Law Enforcement Commander Ahmad Reza Radan, who labeled the night “decisive” and urged supporters to flood the streets. Meanwhile, Iran’s Ministry of Intelligence accused Israel of exploiting the festival, claiming “Israeli soldiers’ misuse of Chaharshanbe Suri celebrations.”
Historically a Zoroastrian ritual symbolizing renewal, Chaharshanbe Suri has increasingly become a flashpoint for youth-led dissent against the Islamic Republic’s restrictions.