Iran Marks 47th Anniversary of Islamic Revolution Amid Pressure

Protests, U.S. military moves add tension as Iran celebrates revolution milestone

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Iran marked the 47th anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution on Wednesday, with the country's theocracy facing pressure both from within and from the United States. Thousands took to the streets in support of the government, but there were also reports of anti-government chants. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump suggested sending another aircraft carrier group to the region, adding to the tensions.

Why it matters

The anniversary celebration comes at a critical time for Iran, as it navigates ongoing nuclear negotiations with the U.S. and deals with domestic unrest over a brutal crackdown on protests last month. The U.S. military moves are seen as an effort to increase pressure on Iran during the talks.

The details

Authorities broadcast images of large pro-government rallies across Iran, but there were also reports of anti-government chants in Tehran. Meanwhile, a top Iranian security official traveled to Qatar, which has mediated past negotiations with Iran. The U.S. has moved military assets to the region, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, and Trump suggested sending another carrier group.

  • Iran marked the 47th anniversary of its 1979 Islamic Revolution on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
  • Last month, Iran cracked down on nationwide protests, killing thousands and detaining tens of thousands.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who suggested sending another aircraft carrier group to the Middle East to increase pressure on Iran.

Benjamin Netanyahu

The Prime Minister of Israel, who visited Washington to push the U.S. toward stricter terms in any nuclear agreement with Iran.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The 86-year-old Supreme Leader of Iran, who was featured in images of the pro-government rallies.

Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini

The founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whose image was also displayed in the pro-government rallies.

Masoud Pezeshkian

Iran's reformist President, who was expected to give a speech at the anniversary celebration in Tehran.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The 47th anniversary of Iran's Islamic Revolution is marked by a mix of pro-government rallies and anti-government sentiment, as the country navigates nuclear negotiations and domestic unrest, with the U.S. military presence in the region adding to the tensions.