Despite ongoing conflict, thousands of Muslims in Iran participated in prayers marking the finish of Ramadan on Saturday, March 21, 2026. The observance, known as Eid al-Fitr, signifies the conclusion of the holy month, a period of fasting and spiritual reflection. The celebrations come as Iran faces continued attacks amid a war with the United States and Israel.
Images from Iranian state television showed large crowds gathering in central Tehran for prayers at the Imam Khomeini Grand Mosque. Similar scenes unfolded in other cities across the country, including Arak, Zahedan, and Abadan, according to state media reports. The gatherings took place despite regular bombings in Tehran.
This year, the final day of Ramadan coincided with Nowruz, the Persian New Year, which was observed with a somber tone as Iranians continue to live under Israeli and U.S. Bombardment that began in late February. The overlapping holidays underscore the challenges facing the nation as it navigates both religious observance and wartime conditions.
Vladimir Putin felicita a Irán por Nouruz y reitersa su apoyo
Russian President Vladimir Putin extended Nowruz greetings to Iranian leaders, reaffirming Moscow’s commitment as a loyal friend and reliable partner to Tehran, according to a statement released by the Kremlin. This expression of support highlights Russia’s continued alignment with Iran amidst escalating regional tensions.
Notably, Ayatollah Mojtaba Jamenei, Iran’s new supreme leader, did not lead the ceremony in Tehran and has not appeared publicly since assuming power earlier this month following the assassination of his father in a U.S.-Israeli attack. Gholam Hosein Mohseni Ejei, the head of the judiciary, led prayers at the Imam Khomeini mosque instead. This absence from a traditional role marks a departure from past practice.
