Despite the ongoing U.S.-Israeli imposed war, people from all walks of life in the country are preparing to celebrate Nowruz, the Persian New Year, with the universal message of boosting unity and peace among people.

Nowruz, which means ‘new day’, is one of the oldest and most important traditions celebrated by a large number of people across the world, particularly in Iran, Tajikistan,  and Afghanistan, as a sign of renewal due to its coincidence with the spring. 

Almost a month prior to Nowruz, cities are bustling with life, with shoppers, sellers, and vendors. The streets are filled with gold fish, sabzeh (wheat or lentil sprouts), and five other items, that begin with the letter ‘S’ in Persian, used to set Haft-Seen table.

Nowruz involves family gatherings, visits, and feasts, specific rituals, and celebrations, which highlight the importance of friendship, peace, and solidarity.

Nowruz is not only a time for personal renewal, but also a time to honor cultural heritage and promote values of unity, peace, and respect for nature. It’s a celebration of life, resilience, and the beauty of the natural world. The United Nations recognizes Nowruz as an international holiday, emphasizing its importance in promoting cultural diversity and understanding.

For many, it’s a time to reconnect with family, friends, and traditions, fostering a sense of community and shared history. The holiday also signifies hope and a new beginning, a time to let go of past grievances and embrace the future with optimism.

Nowruz is more than just a New Year’s celebration, it’s a cultural and spiritual experience that unites people across the world. Its customs reflect the deep connection between humanity and the changing seasons, inviting everyone to partake in the joy of renewal, unity, and hope for a better future.

This year, however, everything started in a different way with the outbreak of the imposed war on February 28, and the martyrdom of many of our beloved ones, casting a shadow over Nowruz celebrations.

Exactly in the last month of the winter, as every other year, the streets are filled with people. But there is a difference; they get together every night to showcase the country’s internal resilience, shouting their support for the country being attacked by the U.S. and Israel. 

Despite the escalation of violations and military threats, people have not given up, and won’t stop their support for the country. They even celebrated Chaharshanbe Souri (an ancient festivity held on the night before the last Wednesday of the year) in a different way. Instead of letting off fireworks and making fires to jump over, people attended gatherings at main squares to further show unity.

All and all, people feel wounded but proud. They are determined to stay together, reject foreign aggressions, and more importantly, not to leave armed forces alone in the fight with enemies. 

No matter what, tonight, and many other nights to come, people have decided to reinforce national unity till the final victory of over enemies.