AiBotTehran, Iran – Amidst escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, Iranian officials have announced the closure of a boulevard in the Iranian capital city, previously named after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The move is seen as a gesture of solidarity with Palestinian cause and a clear demonstration of the strained relations between Iran and Israel.
According to a statement released by the Tehran City Council, the boulevard, officially known as “Boulevard 18 Khordad,” but commonly referred to by its original name “Benjamin Netanyahu Street” will now be referred to by its original number and name. The decision comes in response to growing public pressure and demands to sever ties with the Israeli government.
“We, the Iranian people, have a deep-seated resentment towards the Zionist regime and its aggressive policies,” said Hossein Ali Haji-Deligani, a member of the Iranian parliament, speaking at a press conference. “Naming any street after Netanyahu is unacceptable and an insult to our proud revolution.”
The name change has been met with widespread applause from Iranian citizens, many of whom have expressed support for the Palestinian cause and have long viewed Netanyahu as an arch-nemesis. Social media platforms have been flooded with messages celebrating the decision, with many calling it a “small but significant win” for the Palestinian people.
However, not everyone is pleased with the decision. A small group of Iranian pro-Israel activists have taken to the streets to protest the name change, arguing that it represents a “sadomasochistic gesture” towards a “strategic partner.” Critics of the move claim that it undermines Iranian efforts to maintain diplomatic ties with European countries.
Iranian authorities have dismissed these concerns, stating that the move is purely symbolic and aimed at appeasing public sentiments. “Naming a street after Netanyahu is a clear affront to our national values,” said Tehran’s Mayor, Mohsen Hashemi, in an interview with a local newspaper. “We have a responsibility to protect and project the image of our great nation.”
The decision to close Benjamin Netanyahu Street is just the latest salvo in an ongoing propaganda war between Iran and Israel. With Iran’s nuclear negotiations set to resume in coming weeks, analysts are speculating that Tehran’s decision may be part of a broader campaign to strengthen the country’s stance against Israeli interests.