The February 11, 1404 (22 Bahman) Demonstrations in Iran, by more than 34 million people

The February 11, 1404 (22 Bahman) Demonstrations in Iran, by more than 34 million people

The February 11, 1404 (22 Bahman) Demonstrations in Iran, officially reported as having been attended by more than 34 million people, represent a remarkable and unique case compared to other government-organized mass demonstrations throughout world history. These demonstrations were held to commemorate the anniversary of the Islamic Revolution and, in terms of scale and participation, witnessed a broad presence of people across the country. Below are some comparative aspects that can be highlighted:

1. Scale and Number of Participants

February 11, 1404 Demonstrations in Iran:
It is reported that more than 34 million people participated in these demonstrations. Compared to other historical mass gatherings, this is an extraordinarily large number. Given Iran’s population (approximately 85 million), such participation indicates a very high level of public involvement.

Tiananmen Square Protests (1989):
Although one of the largest and most well-known demonstrations in China’s history, participation was estimated in the millions and ultimately faced severe suppression.

Anti-Apartheid Demonstrations in South Africa:
These protests had significant national and global impact, but the exact number of participants was lower than 34 million.

2. Purpose and Message of the Demonstrations

February 11, 1404 Demonstrations:
The purpose of these demonstrations was to emphasize the achievements of the Islamic Revolution, renew commitment to its principles, and express support for the Islamic Republic. Such demonstrations are typically organized to reinforce the regime’s legitimacy and display public support for the government.

Anti–Vietnam War Protests:
These demonstrations, particularly in the United States, were held in opposition to the Vietnam War and government policies, aiming for political and social change.

Tiananmen Square Protests:
These protests centered on democratic and economic demands and opposition to corruption. Unlike Iran’s February 11 demonstrations, which support the government, Tiananmen was primarily driven by calls for political reform and democratization.

3. Nature of the Demonstrations and Repression

February 11, 1404 Demonstrations:
These events are officially framed as national celebrations and are generally conducted as organized ceremonies and public gatherings rather than political protests. They serve primarily to display unity and public support for the government.

Tiananmen Square:
These protests were explicitly anti-government and ultimately resulted in a violent crackdown and large-scale casualties.

Anti-Apartheid Protests:
These demonstrations opposed a racially discriminatory regime and ultimately contributed to profound structural political change in South Africa.

4. Participation from Rural and Remote Areas

One notable aspect of the February 11, 1404 demonstrations is the participation of people from across the country, including rural and remote regions. This may be interpreted as indicating broad national support for the Islamic Republic.

In comparison, many major historical demonstrations were concentrated in urban centers and major cities. In Iran, however, these events are portrayed as reflecting wide participation from various social groups, including rural populations.

5. Domestic and International Impact

February 11, 1404 Demonstrations:
These demonstrations are primarily domestic in nature and take place within Iran’s borders. Their impact is largely focused on internal politics and reinforcing the stability of the Islamic Republic.

Anti–Vietnam War Protests and Tiananmen Square:
These events had significant international repercussions and drew global attention.

6. Demonstrations Amid External Pressure and Competing Narratives

In recent years, Iran has faced significant external pressure, including economic sanctions, regional conflicts, military threats, and intense international media scrutiny. Various governments and human rights organizations have made allegations against Iran, including claims that more than 60,000 people have been killed in internal crackdowns. Iranian authorities reject these accusations and describe them as part of a coordinated anti-Iranian propaganda campaign.

In such a context, the reported participation of 34 million people in the February 11 demonstrations is interpreted by supporters of the government as evidence of national resilience and unity in the face of external pressure. According to this view, the large turnout represents a form of national resistance to foreign hostility and attempts to undermine the country’s legitimacy.

Historically, in some countries, external pressure has led to increased domestic dissent. In others, however, external threats have produced a “rally around the flag” effect, strengthening public support for the existing government—such as in the United States following the September 11 attacks.

Conclusion

The February 11, 1404 demonstrations in Iran are comparable in scale to some of the largest mass gatherings in modern history. What distinguishes them, however, is their supportive and celebratory character, as opposed to protest movements like Tiananmen Square or anti–Vietnam War demonstrations.

Furthermore, the fact that these demonstrations reportedly took place amid sanctions, military threats, and international criticism adds an additional analytical dimension. Supporters view the turnout as a sign of legitimacy and unity, while critics may question the political environment, mobilization mechanisms, or the accuracy of the reported figures.

From an analytical perspective, the significance of these demonstrations lies not only in the number of participants but also in the broader political and security context in which they were held and in how different domestic and international actors interpret them.

نویسنده:Amin Kaidi