February 11 marks the Islamic Republic’s annual celebration of the 1979 revolution, emphasizing regime legitimacy amidst public dissent. This year, extensive arrangements, including 7,700 journalists and military displays, showcase the regime’s desperation for support, with reports of families of detained protesters being pressured to attend. Supreme Leader Khamenei framed participation as a national strength, despite widespread public discontent and economic struggles. The anniversary reflects the regime’s struggle to control a narrative increasingly at odds with the people’s desires for change.
