IRAN MARKS 1979 REVOLUTION AMID PROTESTS AND RISING TENSIONS WITH U.S.(PHOTO).

 Iran marks 1979 revolution amid protests and rising tensions with US

 Iran marked the 47th anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution on Wednesday amid mounting internal and external pressures. Nationwide, state media showed hundreds of thousands attending pro-government rallies, complete with American flag burnings and chants of “Death to America!” Yet, the celebrations contrasted sharply with public dissent, as Tehran residents reportedly shouted “Death to the dictator!” from their homes the night before. President Masoud Pezeshkian, speaking at Azadi Square, reaffirmed Iran’s willingness to negotiate over its nuclear program, emphasizing the nation’s stance that it does not seek nuclear weapons while acknowledging the ongoing lack of full inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. He also called for dialogue aimed at regional peace despite a “high wall of mistrust” with the U.S. and Europe.

The anniversary was overshadowed by the aftermath of a violent crackdown on nationwide protests that began in early January, leaving thousands dead and tens of thousands detained, according to activist reports. State television broadcast pro-government demonstrations, including missile displays and symbolic coffins draped in American flags, reflecting strong support from hard-line factions and government employees, though some citizens refrained from participating in the protest due to the recent bloodshed. Meanwhile, Iranian security official Ali Larijani traveled to Qatar to support nuclear negotiations mediated by the Gulf nation, while President Trump suggested sending another aircraft carrier to the Middle East to bolster U.S. pressure. Tensions remain high as both sides weigh the future of the fragile nuclear talks and the potential for further regional escalation.