'Aaj Tak' on the streets of Tehran... What did our reporter see there?
Aaj Tak's team reported from Tehran during heightened tensions between Iran and the United States, covering the significant turnout at the National Day celebrations.
While tensions with the United States continue, Aaj Tak's correspondent Sumit Chaudhary provides an on-ground report from Tehran, highlighting the mood during the 47th National Day celebrations. The capital experienced a massive turnout at the Azadi Square, where thousands gathered to showcase solidarity, which was perceived as a direct response to U.S. claims of regime change. This event is particularly notable as Aaj Tak is the first news channel from India to send a team to Iran amidst current unrest.
Following recent riots in Iran, security measures have been heightened across Tehran, with visible deployments of local police and military forces to maintain order during the celebrations. The increased presence of security personnel underscores the government's efforts to control the situation after calls for change and discontent within the populace. The turnout at the National Day, reportedly double compared to previous years, signals a strong public sentiment against perceived foreign meddling, especially from the West.
The gathering at Azadi Square is seen as an attempt not only to celebrate national pride but also to deliver a robust message to Western nations and the U.S., emphasizing that the Iranian people stand united against external pressure. This public display of unity and defiance indicates a shift in public sentiment and a rejection of the notion that the regime lacks popular support, making it a crucial moment in Iran's current socio-political landscape.