Tehran — As night falls over Iran’s capital and the snowy peaks of the Alborz Mountains fade into darkness, thousands of people have been gathering in state-organized rallies aimed at mobilizing public support against the United States.
Near Tajrish Square, one of Tehran’s more upscale districts, chants of “Death to America” echo through the streets as Iranian flags wave above crowds of supporters. Street vendors sell tea and patriotic souvenirs, including caps and badges, as the atmosphere grows increasingly charged.
“I am so ready to sacrifice my life for my country and my people,” said a young woman named Tiana, wearing glasses colored like the Iranian flag. Speaking over the noise of the crowd, she added that Iran’s military and leadership are prepared for any confrontation.
Her comments came shortly after renewed threats from US President Donald Trump, who posted on his Truth Social platform warning of possible military action if stalled negotiations fail to progress.
“For Iran, the clock is ticking, and they better get moving fast, or there won’t be anything left of them,” Trump wrote, escalating tensions amid fragile ceasefire discussions.
Among the crowd, an elderly man held a handwritten sign emphasizing Iran’s position on its nuclear and missile programs.
“Nuclear and missile technology is as important as our borders, so we will protect them,” the message read. He insisted Iran needed nuclear power for peaceful energy purposes, adding: “We need nuclear power, clean energy, not a bomb.”
He also rejected accusations regarding Iran’s intentions, saying, “Trump knows we don’t have a bomb, but he is attacking us anyway.”
As fears of renewed US-Israeli strikes spread, many Iranians appear increasingly resigned to the possibility of further conflict.
“We know this war isn’t over. We know Trump is not really going to negotiate,” said Fatima, who said she grew up between London and Dubai. She described what she sees as an ultimatum approach from Washington, warning that military action could follow regardless of diplomacy.
The rallies, often described as “night gatherings,” have reportedly been held across the country for months, becoming a regular feature of public life since tensions escalated.
In recent days, however, more alarming scenes have emerged, including public kiosks where civilians are reportedly receiving basic weapons training. At one site in Vanak Square, individuals were seen learning how to handle AK-47 rifles under the supervision of uniformed instructors.
Footage and reports also suggest that elements of the message are being reinforced on Iranian state television, where presenters have appeared on-air holding or demonstrating firearms.
In one broadcast, a male anchor reportedly fired a weapon inside a studio after receiving instruction from a member of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). In another, a female presenter appeared holding a rifle while addressing viewers and describing training initiatives.
However, not all voices in Iran reflect this militant tone.
Just a short distance from the rallies in Tajrish Square, life continues quietly in parks and cultural spaces. Couples walk together, families sit on benches, and vendors sell books and tea in a calmer atmosphere.
“No to war,” one young man said as he passed through the area.
A university professor, speaking quietly with her husband and requesting anonymity, expressed a different hope for the country’s future.
“We just want to live in a normal country, where our children can have a future,” she said softly.
Despite these contrasting views, the dominant public messaging remains heavily shaped by official rhetoric as tensions between Iran and the United States continue to rise, leaving uncertainty over what comes next.
