In a surprising move, Iran’s top military official, Major General Mohammad Baqeri, delivered a Nowruz and Eid Al-Fitr message from the ancient ruins of Persepolis. His short but symbolic speech has sparked wide discussion in Iran and abroad, with experts saying it could mark a turning point in the country’s messaging strategy.
The video, posted on April 4, shows Baqeri dressed in civilian clothes—an unusual sight for the military chief—standing at the site of the former capital of the Persian Empire. In the message, he called for peace, emphasized Iran’s commitment to friendly ties with neighbors, and highlighted the importance of national unity.
This comes as tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States continue to escalate.
A Message Loaded with Symbolism
Baqeri’s choice of location is drawing as much attention as his words. Persepolis is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Iran’s rich history before the Islamic era. His civilian outfit also signals a softer tone.
“The message is fantastic,” said a senior political source in Tehran, speaking to Amwaj.media. “It shows the general is listening to the people.”
Observers believe the speech serves two purposes: to send a peaceful message to the world and to reassure Iranians that the armed forces stand ready to defend the country if needed.
Peaceful Intentions, But a Warning Too
In the video, Baqeri said, “I hope this is going to be a peaceful year for the Iranian nation.” He described Persepolis as a symbol of Iran’s “peace, calm, friendship, and fraternity.”
The video was produced by the official foundation that manages Persepolis and was first shared on its Instagram account. It quickly went viral across social media.
Iran’s state-run Iran newspaper on April 5 praised Baqeri’s choice of location and attire, saying it sent a strong message: the people are safe, and the military is a guardian of peace and identity.
Former lawmaker and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) general Esmail Kowsari also weighed in. “This is not new,” he wrote. “Iran has always wanted peace but will respond strongly to any attacks.”
A Shift Toward Nationalism
Baqeri’s message suggests a shift from Iran’s usual Islamic revolutionary rhetoric toward a more nationalist tone. This change, analysts say, is aimed at gaining wider support at home.
Masoud Rezaei, a researcher at the Center for Middle East Strategic Studies in Tehran, noted the trend. He said Iran is “accepting the new reality” and focusing more on its people rather than broader Islamic unity.
Conservative commentators applauded Baqeri. Mehrdad Karimzadeh called the one-minute message “a masterclass in external messaging,” while journalist Alireza Safineh praised his “intelligence and wit.”
But not everyone agreed. Some critics felt the message showed weakness or confusion in Iran’s current strategy.
Iran Warns Regional Neighbors
Behind the peaceful tone, Iran also issued a warning to nearby countries. Reports say Tehran told its neighbors that allowing the U.S. to use their airspace or military bases against Iran would be seen as a hostile act.
However, a high-level political source in Iran told Amwaj.media this policy is not new. It has been Iran’s position for years.
Talks with the U.S. May Still Be Possible
On April 6, Baqeri followed up on his earlier speech. He said Iran is open to diplomacy with the U.S. over its nuclear program—but only through indirect talks.
He mentioned a recent letter exchange between Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and former U.S. President Donald Trump. Baqeri stated, “Iran will not close the path” to talks, but only if the U.S. acts “honestly.”
He also stressed that Iran does not seek nuclear weapons but will not tolerate threats. “We will resist bullying and coercion,” he said.
At the same time, Iraqi news sources reported that Baqeri warned his Iraqi counterpart about Israeli plans to use Iraqi airspace for possible U.S.-backed strikes against Iran.
Rising Regional Tensions
The message comes at a tense moment. Former U.S. President Trump has warned Iran of severe consequences if no deal is reached over its nuclear activities. Iran has promised to respond firmly if attacked.
France also raised concerns. On April 1, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said military conflict with Iran is “almost inevitable” without a diplomatic solution.
Still, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and other reformist leaders are pushing for talks. Just days before Baqeri’s video, Pezeshkian said Iran is open to negotiations and does not want a nuclear-armed future.
Military Strategy Meets National Pride
The IRGC, Iran’s powerful military force, has started using nationalist language to boost public support. This new approach blends Islamic ideals with Iran’s ancient history.
Experts say Baqeri’s speech reflects this strategy. While keeping a strong defense posture, the military is reaching out to the public through symbols of pride and heritage.
What’s Next?
As Iran stands at a crossroads, Baqeri’s message seems to signal both readiness for diplomacy and preparation for conflict. With international pressure mounting, the path Iran chooses in the coming weeks could shape the region’s future.
Whether this rare show of nationalism leads to talks or tensions, one thing is clear: the world is watching.
