NewsIran rallies in fury: Calls for revenge echo against Israel and US

Iran rallies in fury: Calls for revenge echo against Israel and US

People took to the streets. Iran celebrates attack on Israel.

Images source: © East News | AA/ABACA

8:14 AM EDT, April 14, 2024, updated: 10:24 AM EDT, April 14, 2024

After a Saturday attack on Israel, residents of Iran's largest cities took to the streets to show their support for the military's actions. Loud protests erupted, notably at Palestine Square in Tehran, where demonstrators chanted slogans like "death to Israel" and "death to America."

At these protests, many held Iranian flags and banners of Hezbollah, which receives support from Iran. Portraits of General Qasem Soleimani, the former commander of the Iranian special forces who was killed in an American strike in Iraq in 2020, were also prominently displayed.

The Iranian leadership, led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had previously vowed "punishment" for Israel for attacking the Iranian consulate in Damascus, Syria's capital. That early April strike resulted in the death of several Iranian officers.

Iranians took to the streets

AFP reported that a banner aimed at Israelis had been displayed at Palestine Square for days, tersely advising them "to take shelter." Over the weekend, a striking new mural was revealed in the city, portraying a shredded Israeli flag under the warning: "The next slap is fiercer".

Additionally, a brief protest unfolded in front of the British Embassy. AFP highlighted that many Iranians have increasingly voiced their concerns over the heightened risk of direct armed conflict with Israel. Some are calling for a strong retaliation to the consulate attack in Damascus.

The Times of Israel noted the sight of long lines at Tehran gas stations on Sunday morning, interpreting it as anxiety among Iranians about potential Israeli countermeasures.

Israeli Prime Minister delivered a speech to the nation

Shortly after reports emerged of Iran deploying kamikaze drones toward Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation. "Together we will stand and with G-d's help – together we will overcome all of our enemies," he affirmed.

"Citizens of Israel, in recent years, and especially in recent weeks, Israel has been preparing for a direct attack by Iran. Our defensive systems are deployed," stated Netanyahu.

He stressed that the Israeli military is "prepared for any scenario", ensuring a robust defence and offence. "The State of Israel is strong. The IDF is strong. The public is strong. We appreciate the US standing alongside Israel, as well as the support of Britain, France and many other countries," Netanyahu confidently declared.