Pezeshkian: We Are Ready to Hear the People’s Voice, But After the Massacre?

The February 11th rally took place amid bloody crackdowns and threats against families of detainees, and Masoud Pezeshkian spoke at this ceremony about his readiness to hear the voice of the people, but hearing the people’s voice after a massive massacre.

Today, February 11th, 1404 (2025), the Islamic Republic government once again held the anniversary of the 1979 revolution with government rallies; ceremonies that this year took shape not in a festive atmosphere, but in the shadow of bloody crackdowns on people’s protests and deep wounds inflicted on Iranian society. Only a month has passed since the massacre and mass arrests of protesters; events for which no transparent accountability has yet been provided.

At this ceremony, Masoud Pezeshkian, in his speech, attempted to present a reconciliatory image of the government and declared that we must “listen to the voice of the people” and not confront them. He emphasized: “We are servants of the people and we are ready to listen to the voice of the people.” He also said that the government is obligated to address those who have been harmed in recent events.

But for many bereaved families and detainees’ relatives, these words are being expressed while the effects of severe street crackdowns, killing of protesters, and security clashes continue. Critics ask how a government that just weeks ago responded to protests with widespread violence now speaks of listening to the people’s voice, and that too within the framework of red lines repeatedly drawn by Ali Khamenei.

Furthermore, reports from inside the country indicate that some families of detainees have been pressured and threatened to participate in the February 11th rally and even document their presence. For families whose loved ones remain imprisoned, this forced participation in government ceremonies is not a choice, but an attempt to preserve the lives and safety of their children and relatives. Many view this action as another form of pressure and psychological punishment against families.

This year’s rally took place while a security atmosphere was visible in various cities and the presence of extensive police and security forces was reported. Official media attempted to highlight images of crowds and government slogans, but on social networks, a different narrative of concern, coercion, and forced silence was reflected.

In such circumstances, talking about “listening to the people’s voice” has a dual meaning for many citizens. A voice that was answered with bullets and arrests in the streets is now being recognized in official forums, but without clear signs of policy change or accountability for the killed and imprisoned.

Critics believe that if the people’s voice is to be heard, this listening must be accompanied by the release of political prisoners, an end to threats against families, transparency about the massacre of protesters, and practical respect for citizens’ fundamental rights; not merely in the form of ceremonial speeches.

The February 11th, 1404 rally, more than being a display of national unity, serves as a reminder to many of the deep divide between the ruling system and people who are still awaiting justice and accountability.