Tens of thousands of Iranian citizens gathered for the funeral rites honoring 280 unknown soldiers who had sacrificed their lives during Saddam Hussein’s invasion of Iran. The poignant ceremonies took place in multiple cities across Iran, including the capital, Tehran.
Amid this solemn occasion, attendees also reaffirmed their unwavering support for the Palestinian cause. The commander-in-chief of the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps (IRGC) Major General Hossein Salami pledged steadfast and perpetual backing for the Palestinians.
Drawing parallels to the relentless eight-year war waged by Saddam against Iran, the top general highlighted that the U.S. cannot overpower Muslims through aggression and coercion.
Maj-Gen. Salami underscored the futility of America’s strategies, referencing the ongoing Palestinian struggle.
He pointed out the atrocities committed by the U.S. and its allies, emphasizing that history repeats itself. He urged U.S. policymakers to prioritize domestic needs over financing Israel’s military endeavors.
The general condemned Israel’s deliberate targeting of civilian infrastructure, decrying the regime’s attacks on hospitals, schools, and homes. He accused the regime of resorting to civilian casualties to compensate for its inability to counter Hamas fighters directly.
Salami expressed confidence in the ultimate triumph of the Palestinians in their battle against occupation, stating that the Palestinian nation, despite sacrifices, remains resilient and indomitable.
He also highlighted the failure of the so-called Abraham Accords, noting a shift in public sentiment against the Israeli regime despite persistent efforts by the U.S. and Israel.
Salami emphasized the growing resentment in Muslim nations towards these entities, noting the reluctance of American and Israeli officials to appear in Islamic territories due to widespread animosity.
The devastating Israeli assaults on Gaza resulted in the loss of approximately 20,000 civilian lives, with a significant majority—70%—comprising women and children.
The United Nations, alarmed by the situation, cautioned that there were no safe havens left in the region, leaving Palestinians in constant fear for their lives.
Moreover, the UN highlighted the deteriorating humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where every resident is grappling with hunger, painting a dire picture of the ongoing crisis.
