Pezeshkian Apologizes at Iran’s Revolution Anniversary

Islamic Republic officials joined large crowds across Iran on Tuesday to commemorate 22 Bahman, the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution, amid renewed political messaging from President Masoud Pezeshkian on domestic grievances, protest rights, and foreign policy.

Nationwide rallies mark 22 Bahman anniversary

Senior Iranian officials and citizens participated in rallies across the country to mark the victory anniversary of the Islamic Revolution. The annual 22 Bahman marches are a central event in Iran’s political calendar and are closely watched for signals about domestic unity and the government’s standing.

The demonstrations came at a time of continued economic pressure and political debate inside Iran, as well as heightened regional and international tensions.

Pezeshkian apologizes for shortcomings, vows reforms

Addressing the public, President Pezeshkian acknowledged existing problems and offered an apology to the population.
“I apologize to the noble nation for the shortcomings that exist,” he said, adding that the government was working “with all our heart and soul” to resolve the country’s challenges “with power and firmness.”

Pezeshkian’s remarks reflected an effort to present a conciliatory tone toward public dissatisfaction while emphasizing the state’s commitment to reform from within the system.

Protests welcomed, violence rejected

The president drew a clear distinction between peaceful protest and violent unrest. “We welcome protest. We consider protest to be a blessing. We have a duty to listen to these protests,” he said.

At the same time, he strongly condemned acts of violence, vandalism, and arson. Pezeshkian said no Iranian would take up arms against another Iranian, burn mosques, attack public transportation, or destroy public property. He also rejected calls for foreign involvement, saying no free person would ask an external power to interfere in Iran’s internal affairs.

“We will sit down and solve our own problems ourselves,” he said, stressing that reforms would not come through destruction, violence, or the spread of false information.

Diplomacy, nuclear stance, and mistrust with the West

Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran is pursuing diplomacy in line with the guidance of the Supreme Leader and the efforts of Iranian officials. He again stated that Iran is not seeking nuclear weapons and said Tehran is prepared for any form of verification.

However, he blamed a lack of progress on what he described as deep mistrust created by the United States and Europe through their actions and rhetoric. According to Pezeshkian, this mistrust has erected a “tall wall” preventing talks from reaching meaningful outcomes.

He said Iran would not submit to what he called excessive demands or retreat in the face of injustice and transgression, emphasizing that the country has learned it can rely only on its own people and domestic capabilities.