January 20 marks a significant anniversary in Iranian history—the release of the last group of political prisoners from the Shah’s prisons in 1979. On that pivotal day, 126 individuals, including Massoud Rajavi and other leading members of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK), were set free. This event was not only a milestone for the prisoners but also a catalyst for the revolutionary movement that followed.

Honoring a Historic Day

On January 18, 2025, corresponding to the anniversary of this momentous occasion, PMOI Resistance Units across Iran commemorated the day with a series of coordinated anti-regime actions. These activities underscored their unwavering commitment to opposing the regime’s oppressive rule and highlighted the enduring legacy of those who fought for freedom.

Resistance units in numerous cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Karaj, Rasht, Hamedan, Bandar Abbas, Sanandaj, Bandar Anzali, and Talesh, carried out acts of defiance. They prominently displayed images of Massoud Rajavi alongside quotes from his speeches, emphasizing themes of resistance and the necessity of overthrowing the regime. Their messages reflected resilience, hope, and a call for unity among those who yearn for a democratic future.

Messages of Defiance Across Cities

The slogans and imagery displayed by the resistance units conveyed powerful messages of courage and determination:

  • Tehran (Tehransar Boulevard): “The Iranian people’s democratic revolution will succeed.”

  • Karaj (Azadi Street): “The Iranian people’s democratic revolution will succeed.”
  • Mashhad (Vakilabad Highway, Saba Boulevard, and Amiriyah Boulevard): “The Iranian people’s democratic revolution will succeed” and “The regime must be overthrown entirely.”

  • Rasht (Rashtian Boulevard and Ghali Pour Boulevard): “The Iranian people’s democratic revolution is in the hands of its people and insurgents.”
  • Bandar Anzali (Jahangardi Street): Visual tributes to the resistance.
  • Talesh (Salsal Street): “January 19 marks the anniversary of Massoud Rajavi’s release from the Shah’s prison.”
  • Hamedan (Azadi Boulevard, Baharestan Street, and Badi-ol-Zaman Boulevard): “We must break the chains of religious fascism.”
  • Sanandaj (Farhangian Complex): “We must fight until the chains of religious fascism are broken.”
  • Bandar Abbas (Delgosha Street): “You, dictator; I am Arash, fire answers fire.”

Acts of Resistance in Major Cities

On January 19, anti-regime activities continued as resistance units marked the anniversary of the prisoners’ release. They engaged in putting up banners, graffiti writing, distributing leaflets, and inscribing slogans in public spaces. Each act conveyed the message of defiance against tyranny:

  • Tehran: Slogans like “The era of the uprising and the decisive battle with maximum courage and bravery has arrived” and “Khamenei and his executioners understand only the language of force and decisiveness” encouraged resilience and strength.
  • Karaj: Messages included “We will continue our fight until this regime is overthrown” and “We must overthrow the regime in its entirety and take back Iran.”
  • Isfahan: The slogan “Death to the mullahs’ regime, long live the Army of Freedom” highlighted the people’s rejection of oppression and support for organized resistance.
  • Mashhad: Slogans such as “With the uprising, the sun is about to rise” provided hope for a brighter future while calling for decisive action against the regime.

  • Yazd: Similar slogans reflected the determination of the city’s residents to confront religious dictatorship.
  • Rasht: The defiant cry “Rebels roar, surrender is forbidden” epitomized the unyielding spirit of resistance.

  • Mahabad: “The only path to freedom is to strike back against the regime” symbolized the need for bold and organized action.
  • Sari: Referencing history, the slogan “Ayatollah Taleghani: Torturers and interrogators were terrified of the name Massoud Rajavi” served as a reminder of the enduring power of resistance.

The Significance of January 20

The release of political prisoners on January 20, 1979, marked a turning point in Iran’s history. It galvanized movements like the PMOI/MEK, which played pivotal roles in the protests that led to the monarchy’s downfall less than a month later. The courage and sacrifice of those who stood against tyranny continue to inspire Iran’s resistance units today.

These acts of defiance not only commemorate a historic victory but also reaffirm the commitment to a future where human rights, democratic governance, and self-determination prevail. The resistance units, through their bold actions, keep alive the hope for an Iran free from oppression and religious dictatorship.

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