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New Rochelle Today
By the People, for the People
Hundreds March in NYC to Support Liberating Iran
Protesters call for U.S. and Israel to continue attacks on Iran's government
Published on Mar. 8, 2026
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Hundreds of people marched along Fifth Avenue in Manhattan on Sunday, calling for the liberation of Iran and standing in solidarity with the Iranian people. The protesters chanted their support for President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their joint attacks on Iran, which have resulted in hundreds of casualties on both sides. Some demonstrators expressed hope that the conflict could lead to them returning to their home country for the first time in years.
Why it matters
The march reflects the ongoing tensions between Iran and the U.S. and Israel, which have escalated into military conflict. The protesters believe the attacks on Iran's government are justified and necessary to liberate the Iranian people, though the human toll of the conflict is significant.
The details
The march was organized as a "March for Liberation" to show support for the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, which have killed the country's supreme leader and caused extensive damage. Protesters held signs with pictures of the exiled Prince of Iran, Reza Pahlavi, and expressed hope that he could serve as a transitional leader. Some demonstrators said they feel conflicted about the war but believe it's the only way to regain the Iran they love.
- The march took place on Sunday, March 8, 2026.
- The U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran began at the end of February 2026.
The players
Merzhad Goharian
A New Jersey resident who used the march to stand in solidarity with her sister and extended family still in Iran, whom she has been unable to contact due to the blackout following the attacks.
Zahra Jlayar
A resident of New Rochelle who said she was thinking of all the people who have died so far during the conflict.
Orli Shahkoohi
A resident of Great Neck, Long Island, who said she is grateful for the U.S. and Israel for stepping up for the Iranian people.
Michael Shahkoohi
Orli Shahkoohi's relative who said he is proud of the Iranian people for stepping up.
Reza Pahlavi
The exiled Prince of Iran and eldest son of the last shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, whose image was displayed on signs at the march.
What they’re saying
“I love them, I love my country, and I love all of the people in Iran.”
— Merzhad Goharian (CBS News)
“Your hero is our hero, and that is what we are standing for today here.”
— Zahra Jlayar (CBS News)
“The whole world is quiet and saying nothing, so I am grateful for the state of Israel and America for stepping up for the people of Iran.”
— Orli Shahkoohi (CBS News)
“I'm proud of Iranian people for stepping up.”
— Michael Shahkoohi (CBS News)
“I want Reza shah as a transition leader. That's not what I want, that's what the people in Iran want.”
— Merzhad Goharian (CBS News)
What’s next
As threats of more attacks continue, the situation in Iran remains volatile, with the U.S. and Israel vowing to continue their campaign against the Iranian government.
The takeaway
The march highlights the deep divisions within the Iranian-American community over the ongoing conflict, with some supporting the U.S. and Israeli intervention while others express concern over the human toll. The conflict has become a flashpoint for debates over the future of Iran and the role of external powers in shaping its destiny.
