Iran celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution Monday in typical fashion, with speeches from government officials, marches, anti-American slogans, protests and also an element of the absurd.
As is customary, President Hassan Rouhani delivered a speech at Tehran’s Azadi Square for the anniversary, which took place on the 22nd day of the month of Bahman in the Iranian calendar. “The 22nd of Bahman has specific qualities of its own this year,” Rouhani said in a speech that was more defiant and focused on Iran’s independence and military achievements than in past years.