Leader of Islamic Ummah characterized the rallies held on Monday as a “popular uprising” in endorsement of the Islamic Revolution

Imam Seyyed Ali Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, commended the nationwide rallies that took place on Monday to mark the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The Leader praised the substantial turnout, noting that President Masoud Pezeshkian’s “clear and decisive” address served as a crucial complement to the significant public demonstration.
During a meeting held on Wednesday, the Leader addressed scientists, specialists, and officials from Iran’s defense industry, alongside several families of martyrs associated with the country’s defense sector.
Ayatollah Khamenei has hailed the most recent Bahman 22 commemoration, which took place on February 10, as among the most remarkable observances of the Islamic Revolution. He characterized the rallies as a “popular uprising,” underscoring their significance in countering the extensive propaganda efforts by adversaries aimed at undermining the Islamic Revolution.
He stated that the nation witnessed a significant popular uprising on Monday as citizens nationwide took to the streets, voiced slogans, and shared their perspectives through various media outlets, marking a widespread national movement.
The Leader emphasized that the active involvement of young individuals and the large turnout nationwide, even in rural areas facing harsh cold and extremely unfavorable weather conditions, delivered a “message of unity” from the Iranian populace.
Ayatollah Khamenei highlighted the remarkable significance of the large turnout, stating that the Iranian people had accomplished something “extraordinary” by demonstrating their “identity, dignity, strength, and resilience” in response to continuous “foolish threats” directed at them.
“The esteemed president lent significant weight to the mass movement on Bahman 22 with his clear and decisive statements, effectively voicing public concerns and articulating the essential points,” he stated.
Addressing his audience, particularly the youth to whom he holds a strong commitment, the speaker emphasized the critical importance of taking timely action. He praised the Iranian nation for their decisive actions on Monday, commending them for executing necessary measures precisely when required and demonstrating their presence at a crucial moment.
Ahead of the meeting, Ayatollah Khamenei spent an hour touring the Eghtedar-1403 exhibition, which highlighted the recent advancements and capabilities of the nation’s defense industry experts and researchers.
The exhibition showcased cutting-edge equipment and innovative technologies in air defense, ballistic and cruise missiles, advanced munitions, space technology, unmanned aerial vehicles, aviation, naval vessels, and energy systems.
During a commentary on the exhibition, the Leader emphasized the paramount importance of safeguarding national security, asserting that Iran’s defensive capabilities are now widely acknowledged on the international stage. These capabilities, he noted, are regarded with admiration by allies of the Revolution and are regarded as a formidable force by its adversaries, positioning them as a critical strength for the nation.
Ayatollah Khamenei recounted a period during which major world powers declined to sell crucial defense equipment to Iran, despite Tehran’s willingness to pay premium prices.
He observed that these same authorities, who once maintained a position of “we won’t sell to you,” are now urging Iran to desist from selling military equipment to other nations. This significant shift, he highlighted, has been achieved through the dedication and innovation of Iranian scientists and the astute efforts of young specialists.
Iran’s supreme leader has underscored the nation’s significant progress in defense technology, achieved despite enduring international sanctions. He asserted that the defense industry has developed to such an extent that should any component or equipment be restricted, Iranian innovators are capable of producing superior versions domestically.