Calls for protests amid heightened security: Iran awaits the night of the Red Wednesday

Iran is bracing tonight for an exceptional atmosphere that will test calls for protest against the backdrop of an unprecedented security mobilization.

It is the night of “Red Wednesday,” an event observed annually by Iranians, though in recent years protests have increasingly replaced celebrations.

“Red Wednesday” is an ancient Iranian folk celebration held on the eve of the last Wednesday before Nowruz (the Persian New Year).

The celebration is part of Iran’s cultural traditions and is marked by fireworks in streets and public squares.

In recent years, security forces have gone on high alert during this occasion, which can sometimes, due to large gatherings, turn into an opportunity to protest against the regime.

Amid developments related to the conflict in Iran, security authorities have intensified warnings and threats aimed at discouraging citizens from protesting that night, especially after Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last Shah, called on citizens to gather in the streets on this occasion.

In a post on the platform X, Pahlavi urged Iranians to assemble in “alleys and neighborhoods” across the country on Tuesday evening during the observance of “Red Wednesday.”

For his part, Iran’s police chief Ahmad Reza Radan called on government forces not to vacate public squares and to remain deployed in the streets.

Iranian media reported on Monday that Radan told government forces: “You are in the streets to defend religion. Tomorrow (Tuesday) is a decisive night for us. Fill all the streets and squares.”

Iranian security forces had previously killed thousands of protesters in January and February, while U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly called on the Iranian people to rise up against the regime, pledging support.

Western reports also indicated that Trump had been counting on military strikes against Iran to trigger widespread street protests aimed at overthrowing the regime.

In this context, this year’s “Red Wednesday” celebrations, expected within hours, carry exceptional significance.