What is the significance of the red flag raised by Iran after the attack?

Iran recreated a majestic scene with profound religious and political connotations, as the "red flag" was raised over the Jamkaran Mosque in the city of Qom. This followed Israeli attacks on sensitive Iranian sites, including nuclear facilities and military headquarters, which resulted in the deaths of prominent leaders.

This military escalation has brought back to the forefront the rhetoric of revenge and decisive response, supported by symbolism that has always carried within it an unforgettable promise: “Blood will not be left unpunished.”

The symbolism of the red flag: historical revenge and national identity In Iranian culture, the red flag holds profound connotations dating back to the tragedy of Karbala, symbolizing the demand for revenge for the blood of those unjustly killed. It bears the same phrase inscribed on it for centuries: "O revenge of Hussein." Historically, it was raised above the homes of those seeking revenge and was not lowered until retribution had been meted out. It is also a symbol of Iranian national identity, embodying courage and strength in battle, in addition to being one of the colors of the Iranian flag.

Previous positions and history of threats and responses Raising the red flag is not unprecedented; Iran has witnessed similar incidents, most notably in 2020 following the assassination of General Qassem Soleimani. The flag was raised over the Jamkaran Mosque until Iran responded by targeting US bases in Iraq. Today, it has been raised again, sending a clear message: "Revenge is coming." Raising the flag coincided with repeated calls for retaliation and official promises that the response would be different this time.

Iran threatens Israel with a bitter fate Fiery statements followed a succession of statements from the Iranian leadership following the attack. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei described the incident as a "crime that will not go unanswered" and vowed "severe punishment." Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer also affirmed that "revenge is inevitable," while the General Staff announced that the response would be without limits or restrictions, emphasizing that "the hand of revenge will reach the Zionist entity and its supporters."

Shocking assassinations shake Iran The Israeli attack was unusual, as it targeted prominent leaders in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps, headed by Major General Hossein Salami, along with Major General Mohammad Bagheri and Major General Gholam Ali Rashid. The attack also targeted senior nuclear scientists and academics, including Ahmad Reza Zolfaghari and Fereydoun Abbasi. Media reports indicated that Iranian National Security Advisor Ali Shamkhani was seriously injured, amid reports of the assassination of the president of Azad University, making the situation more complex and increasing the likelihood of escalation.