Iran unveils the ‘Kneel Before Iran` statue in Tehran`s Enqelab Square on November 7, 2025. (Photo by Tasnim news agency)

Thousands of Tehraners attended a special ceremony to unveil a statue symbolizing the country`s strength, unity, and national identity.

The "Kneeling Before Iran" Statue was unveiled at Tehran`s Enqelab Square on Friday evening in the presence of Tehran mayor, city managers, artists, and citizens, transforming the square into a vibrant cultural and artistic gathering.

During the ceremony, heroic music filled the air, and the participants waved the flags of Iran, showcasing a spirit of national pride and solidarity.

The presence of families, youths, and renowned artists such as Parvaz Homay, Mostafa Raghe,b and Garsha Rezaei added a unique atmosphere to the occasion.

The unveiling revealed a striking sculpture depicting the steadfastness of Iran against its adversaries. The symbolic piece narrates centuries of Iran`s resistance and dignity.

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Head of Tehran Beautification Organization Mehdi Mazhabi said the statue is an artistic expression of the history of the Iranian nation`s resistance.

He added that the Iranian people have repeatedly proved that they would never yield to bullying powers and would bring Intruding enemies to their knees.

He also highlighted the cultural campaign "You Will Kneel Before Iran Again" which reflected Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei`s message that the Iranian nation will stand firm against all pressures and will compel its enemies to retreat.

The statue is inspired by a rock relief that showcases Sasanian king Shapur I`s victory against Roman Emperor Valerian.

Rock relief of Shapur I at Naqsh-e Rostam

The rock relief of Shapur I at Naqsh-e Rostam, located about three kilometers north of Persepolis, commemorates one of the most significant victories in ancient Persian history. Following the Battle of Edessa in 260 CE, where the Roman army suffered a decisive loss, Emperor Valerian, his commanders, and thousands of soldiers were taken prisoner by Shapur I.

The unprecedented capture of a Roman emperor marked a moment of humiliation for Rome and underscored the expanding power of the Sasanian Empire.

To immortalize this triumph, Shapur I ordered the victorious scene to be carved into stone at several sites, including Naqsh-e Rostam, which features one of eight Sasanian rock reliefs in the area.

The relief portrays Emperor Valerian kneeling before Shapur I, pleading for mercy. The Sasanian king is shown mounted on a grand horse, wearing a royal crown and ornate robe, symbolizing imperial authority. In contrast, Valerian, adorned with a Roman crown and cloak, reaches toward the Persian ruler in submission.

Unveiling ceremony of the statue in Tehran`s Enghelab Square on November 7, 2025. (Photo by Defa Press)

Tehran`s deputy mayor for urban services, Davoud Goodarzi, said the idea for the statue was conceived after the 12-day Israeli aggression on Iran and took several months to complete.

Speaking on the sidelines of the unveiling ceremony, Goodarzi said, "Today, we are adding a new symbol to the city`s landmarks. This statue represents the fact that anyone who has ever sought to violate Iran or its people has ultimately been forced to kneel before Iran."

The statue is scheduled to be installed at Azadi Square in about 20 days.